Union minister Choubey emphasizes biodiversity conservation for nature’s balance
1 min read . Updated: 23 May 2023, 05:15 PM IST
PremiumHe also emphasized the importance of public participation in successfully implementing the provisions of the Biodiversity Act 2002
New Delhi: Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Ashwini Kumar Choubey on Tuesday emphasized the critical role of conserving biodiversity in maintaining the delicate balance of nature.
Speaking at the launch of the National Campaign for Updation and Verification of People’s Biodiversity Register (PBR) in Goa, Choubey highlighted the need to return to nature as much as we take from it.
The event, organized by the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in collaboration with the Goa State Biodiversity Board, the National Biodiversity Authority, and the Government of Goa, saw the presence of esteemed dignitaries including Choubey, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, and Chairman of the National Biodiversity Authority C. Achalender Reddy.
Choubey stressed that conserving biodiversity is crucial for maintaining balance in nature. He also emphasized the importance of public participation in successfully implementing the provisions of the Biodiversity Act 2002, stating that raising awareness and engaging the public are essential for the success of these provisions.
The minister informed the audience that over 267,000 People’s Biodiversity Registers (PBR) have been prepared in the country so far by Biodiversity Management Committees, tasked with documenting natural resources and traditional knowledge. He also highlighted the progress made in digitizing the PBRs, transforming them into e-PBRs.
Choubey further underscored the significance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s concept of “Lifestyle for the Environment (LiFE)" introduced at COP26 in Glasgow. The LiFE concept urges individuals and institutions to promote responsible resource utilization for environmental protection. Choubey explained how the preparation and updation of PBRs align with the principles of Mission LiFE.
Goa chief minister Pramod Sawant expressed his pride in Goa being chosen as the launch site for the national campaign. He commended the efforts of the local communities in preserving biodiversity and emphasized their crucial role in achieving success in this sector. Sawant stated that the government can only support the community’s endeavors to preserve biodiversity, and every success belongs to the people.
In addition to the campaign launch, an exhibition showcasing unique products from each Biodiversity Management Committee was inaugurated. The event also included the presentation of special awards recognizing the Best Biodiversity Management Committees in North and South Goa, as well as individual contributions to biodiversity preservation.