The Meghalaya Biodiversity Board celebrated the International Day for Biological Diversity 2023 today on the theme ‘From Agreement to Action: Build Back Biodiversity’ at U Soso Tham Auditorium here.
On the occasion, the Best Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC) Award 2023 was presented to Umtngam BMC, under Bhoirymbong block in Ri-Bhoi and the State-level Best Biodiversity Conservation Award was given to Tyngshainlang Dewkhaid, a conservationist from Phlangwanbroi, Mawsynram, East Khasi Hills.
Chief Secretary Donald P Wahlang was the chief guest on the occasion and was joined by East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner RM Kurbah, Forest and Environment Commissioner and Secretary SMA Razi and others. They released posters on the biodiversity of Meghalaya, pamphlets on biodiversity heritage sites and distributed prizes to the winners of the quiz and photography competitions that were conducted as part of the celebrations.
Addressing the gathering, Wahlang said that the people should bring actions that will build back biodiversity. He stressed that it is the responsibility of all human beings to protect biodiversity.
Giving the importance of public education and awareness on the issue, Wahlang stated that the United Nations has decided to celebrate this day to create awareness and also to inculcate the importance of biodiversity especially to the younger generations. Human relationship with nature and other living beings needs a radical rethink in order to address this issue, he added.
The Chief Secretary further said that it is important for all the Biodiversity Management Committees (BMC) of the state at the village level to disseminate the information to protect the ecosystem, flora and fauna of their area with the help of the People’s Biodiversity Register (PBR).
