An open forum discussion on the conservation significance of Foxtail Orchid was held in Guwahati organised by Aaranyak, a biodiversity conservation organisation as part of its ‘WeForNature’ outreach programme and the Institution of Engineers (India) (IEI) in association with EIACP PC Hub Assam, ASTEC
The session featured Khyanjeet Gogoi, a renowned botanist and conservationist from Assam who is fondly known as the ‘Orchid Man of Assam’ as the Principal Resource Person.
Foxtail Orchid, with its rich ecological and cultural significance, is a crucial component of biodiversity. However, due to threats like overexploitation, habitat destruction and climate change, immediate action for conservation of the species becomes an urgent necessity.
The event was held on November 28 in order to raise awareness about the importance of conservation as well as different economic prospects of the orchid species among the academia and foster a sense of responsibility towards preserving these magnificent plants. Faculties and students of Botany department from different colleges of Guwahati as well as dignitaries from relevant fields attended the event.
During his speech, Gogoi encouraged young students to come forward and explore different prospects lying with orchid conservation. He emphasised Assam’s rich orchid diversity and its various economic prospects, urging the government to prioritise research and documentation in this area.
From IEI, Mahesh Borkataky highlighted the importance of the event and called upon academic institutions to lead the conservation efforts for the Foxtail orchid. Udayan Borthakur, Senior Scientist and Organising Secretary of Aaranyak, mentioned that the organisation being a leading research-based environmental organisation in Northeast, has numerous provisions for collaborative work with academic institutions as well as other organizations.
Rupam Sankar Baruah, Project Scientist from ASTEC, shared the various initiatives taken by ASTEC in the restoration and conservation of orchids in Assam.
The discussion opened up several avenues for collective action towards the protection and conservation of the Foxtail Orchid and other orchid species.
