Shillong, June 15: The International Biodiversity Day 2016 organized by the State Forest and Environment Department and Meghalaya Biodiversity Board (MBB) was observed today at U Soso Tham Auditorium, Shillong on the theme “Mainstreaming Biodiversity; sustaining people and their livelihoods”.
Shri Prestone Tynsong, Minister of Forest & Environment graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. The programme was also attended by Dr. Shreeranjan, Additional Chief Secretary incharge Forest and Environment, Shri C. Budnah, PCCF & HoFF, Shri C.P. Marak, PCCF, Territorial, Shri D. Sathyan, Secretary, MBB, government officials and students.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Prestone Tynsong calls for urgent need for the conservation and protection of environment. He also appealed the institutions and students to partner with the Forest department to take the initiative of preserving the rich biodiversity of the State by way of creating awareness on various issues that’s endangering the environment.
During the day, the Chief Guest felicitated the Self Help Group from Mawkyrnot village, under Pynursla C&RD Block forwinning the ‘India Biodiversity Award 2016’ under the category ‘sustainable use of biological resources’ in recognition of its contribution in the promotion of root bridges and protection of their surroundings which include the longest known root bridge during the last few years.
Others highlights of the day includes release of Annual Report of Meghalaya Biodiversity Board for the period 2012-2015, two books published by the Department titled ‘Checklist of Flora of Meghalaya’ and ‘Tissue Culture Studies on Some Threatened Taxa, Rare Orchids, and Medicinal Plants of Meghalaya”, biodiversity posters, short trailer documentary of the biodiversity of Mawlyngbna village followed by screening and distribution of prizes to the winners of posters and drawing competitions for schools and colleges students.
