Inter-IISER Panel Discussion on the Status of North-East Biodiversity
The All-IISER Conservation Committee, a novel initiative to spread awareness about the impending hazards to our environment, climate and ecosystems and analyze and mitigate the situation in a scientific light, takes this opportunity to bring you our very first event: an Inter-IISER Panel Discussion.
conducted at IISER Berhampur on 11th of January, 2021
Introduction to the All-IISER Conservation Committee
The All-IISER Conservation Committee, a newly established initiative, aims to create a platform for spreading awareness on the growing threats to our environment, ecosystems, and biodiversity. This committee brings together the expertise and perspectives from across the IISERs to address global environmental concerns in a scientifically rigorous manner. Their first major event was an Inter-IISER Panel Discussion, which sought to unite students, faculty, and conservationists in discussing critical environmental issues. The panel discussion not only aimed to educate but also to ignite meaningful conversations on preserving our natural heritage.
The Above is session recording of the event.
Focus on the Biodiversity of North-East India
The focus of this inaugural panel discussion was on the biodiversity of the North-Eastern region of India, a region that houses one of the worlds 18 recognized mega-biodiversity hotspots. The eight North-Eastern states, with their rich variety of flora and fauna, are crucial to Indias overall biodiversity, and they play an indispensable role in the ecological health of the entire region. Participants in the session explored how these states, often referred to as the "Sisters," contribute significantly to biodiversity conservation, despite facing pressures from deforestation, climate change, and human encroachment.
Challenges and Conservation Efforts in the North-East
Panelists discussed the ongoing conservation challenges in the region, including habitat loss, the impact of climate change, and the pressure from increasing human activities. The discussion also highlighted the potential of community-led conservation efforts, where local tribes and communities play a pivotal role in preserving traditional knowledge of biodiversity. Experts elaborated on how collaborative efforts between local communities, scientists, and policymakers could create a sustainable future for North-East Indias ecosystems. They underscored the need for urgent action to protect the delicate balance of these habitats, emphasizing the importance of preserving both species diversity and ecosystem integrity.
The panel discussion concluded with a call to action for enhanced research, awareness, and policy interventions to safeguard the biodiversity of the North-East. The event marked the beginning of a concerted effort by the All-IISER Conservation Committee to continue fostering discussions, collaborations, and solutions aimed at tackling the environmental crises facing our planet. With a commitment to bringing attention to regions like the North-East, the IISER community has set a foundation for impactful conservation work, strengthening ties between academia, environmental organizations, and local communities.
Moments -
Visuals from the event
Coordinated by - prakhar, Simran
Present members were -
Event Written by - biswa