Gangtok, November 14 (IPR):
The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, Government of India, in collaboration with the Forest and Environment Department, Government of Sikkim, organised a workshop on "Conservation and Wise Use of Wetlands" under the Mission Sahbhagita for the North-Eastern States, at Ranka, today.
Dr P Senthil Kumar, APCCF/HQ Forest and Environment Department, Government of Sikkim, delivered the welcome address and extended a warm welcome to all delegates and officials attending the event.
Dr Pradeep Kumar, Secretary-cum-PCCF Forest and Environment Department, Government of Sikkim, read a message from the Chief Minister, Mr Prem Singh Tamang.
The message of the Chief Minister conveyed:
"It is an honour to host this gathering dedicated to the conservation of our wetlands. These vital ecosystems are central to our heritage, supporting water cycles, biodiversity, and energy security. However, they face serious threats from climate change and unsustainable practices.
While policies and regulations provide the foundation, true conservation depends on the active engagement of communities, NGOs, and citizens. Sikkim has successfully integrated conservation with sustainable development, balancing policy with grassroots involvement.
Sustainable wetland management also opens up opportunities for ecotourism, fostering a deeper appreciation for our heritage. This gathering symbolises the collective approach of the Northeastern states in adopting collaborative conservation strategies.
I express my gratitude to the Forest and Environment Department and all participants for their dedication. Together, let us reaffirm our commitment to protecting these invaluable ecosystems."
Dr Pradeep Kumar, in his address, emphasised the importance of protecting lakes and their critical role in the ecosystem. He said the perceptions of lakes may differ among various groups but they provide significant benefits to both communities and the environment.
Dr Kumar specifically mentioned lakes such as Khecheopalri and Tsongmo, which not only hold ecological importance but also contribute to eco-tourism in Sikkim. He explained that many lakes in Sikkim are preserved due to their cultural and spiritual significance to the local people.
He further stressed the need for local communities to play an active role in the protection of lakes. Dr Kumar highlighted that the community involvement is essential for ensuring the long-term conservation of these valuable natural resources. He concluded by stating that the protection of lakes is both an environmental and cultural responsibility that requires collective effort.
Dr Ramesh Motipalli, Director and Scientist F (Wetland Division), MOEFCC, New Delhi, addressed the gathering on the Government's initiatives for wetland conservation. He outlined several key strategic actions to strengthen the conservation of wetlands including:
-Revising the Wetlands (Management and Conservation) Rules, 2017: Revisions are being made to improve wetland management and protection, based on recommendations from the Committee of Subordinate Legislation, Rajya Sabha.
-Preparation of Framework and Integrated Management Plans: Framework Management Plans (FMPs) and Integrated Management Plans (IMPs) will be developed to ensure a more coordinated approach to wetland management.
-Designation of Additional Ramsar Sites: Efforts are underway to designate 15 new Ramsar Sites by World Wetlands Day (WWD) 2025 to provide better protection to critical wetland ecosystems.
-Implementation of the Amrit Dharohar Initiative: This initiative will be implemented across all Ramsar Sites to improve their ecological health and sustainability.
-Expanding Wetlands Mitra Engagement: The role of community volunteers, or ‘Wetlands Mitra,’ will be strengthened to encourage active community participation in wetland preservation.
-Save Wetlands Campaign 2.0: A renewed campaign will be launched to raise awareness and promote conservation efforts.
-Engaging the Private Sector: Strategies are being developed to involve the private sector in wetland conservation and management, promoting shared responsibility.
Dr Motipalli explained that these actions reflect a commitment to wetland conservation, focusing on enhancing biodiversity and strengthening community engagement across India's diverse wetland ecosystems.
The programme featured technical and interactive sessions along with powerpoint presentations from various states.
The Valedictory Session was graced by the presence of Mr Pintso Namgyal Lepcha, Minister for Forest and Environment, Science and Technology, and Mines and Geology Departments. Certificates of participation and mementos were handed over to all the participants from his hands.
Also present at the event were Mr Uday Gurung, Conservator of Forest (Wildlife), Forest and Environment Department, Mr Elamurgun, Conservator of Forest (Environment), Forest and Environment Department, officials from the Forest and Environment Department, officials from Central Government, representatives from Tsomgo Pokhari Sanrakshan Samiti and Khecheopalri Pokhari Sanrakshan Samiti, and delegates from various North-Eastern states, including Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura.
The programme concluded with the word of thanks delivered by Mr Karma Legshey, Chief Conservator of Forest, Forest and Environment Department.