Centre for Science, Learning and Creativity (CSLC), Anandpur, Shoghi, Shimla
Shimla, 22nd May, 2024: The Himachal Pradesh Biodiversity Board proudly commemorated the International Day for Biodiversity on May 22nd, 2024, at the Centre for Science, Learning and Creativity (CSLC), Shoghi, Shimla. This significant event aimed to highlight the theme “Be Part of the Plan,” emphasizing the importance of collective action in conserving and sustainably using biodiversity.
The event was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including chief guest Sh. Prabodh Saxena, IAS, Chief Secretary to the Government of Himachal Pradesh -cum- Chairman of the Himachal Pradesh Biodiversity Board (HPSBB). Additionally, the presence of Director Environment, Science Technology & Climate Change – cum- Member Secretary, HP State Biodiversity Board Sh. D.C. Rana, IAS, and Dr. Suresh C. Attri, Joint Member Secretary HIMCOSTE & HP State Biodiversity Board, further elevated the event.
The one-day event witnessed participation from eminent experts and heads of Technical Support Groups (TSGs), who shared their invaluable insights and perspectives. The experts from the University of Horticulture & Forestry (UHF), Nauni Solan, Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) – Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (IHBT), Palampur, UHF Neri, Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh University Shimla, Himalayan Forest Research Institute, Shimla, and GB Pant Institute, Mohal, Kullu participated in the event. Their collective expertise and contributions enriched the discussions and initiatives aimed at promoting biodiversity conservation and sustainable practices across Himachal Pradesh.
The Himachal Pradesh State Biodiversity Board (HPSBB) successfully conducted a comprehensive training program for interns on the preparation of People’s Biodiversity Registers (PBRs). The training aimed to equip the interns with the necessary skills and knowledge to document the rich biodiversity of Himachal Pradesh, thereby contributing to the conservation and sustainable use of biological resources.
The program highlighted the critical importance of PBRs as a valuable tool for biodiversity documentation and management. Dr. Attri JMS, HPSBB mentioned that PBRs serve as detailed records of local biological resources and traditional knowledge, forming the cornerstone of biodiversity conservation at the grassroots level. These registers play a pivotal role in ensuring the successful implementation of the Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) provisions under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002. By documenting biodiversity comprehensively, PBRs help in recognizing the contributions of local communities and ensuring they receive fair and equitable benefits arising from the use of these resources.
Experts from various fields, including ecology, botany, zoology, and traditional knowledge systems, imparted the training. The experts emphasized the significance of accurate data collection and the ethical considerations in documenting traditional knowledge.
The training also featured interactive sessions where the Technical Support Groups (TSGs) constituted for PBR preparation shared their experiences with the interns. These groups, comprising local experts and community members, have been instrumental in the preparation of PBRs across different regions of Himachal Pradesh. They provided valuable insights into the challenges and successes encountered during their fieldwork, offering practical tips to the interns.
Sh. Prabodh Saxena, Chairman of HPSBB, addressed the interns, stressing the crucial role they play in the conservation of the state’s biodiversity. The training program concluded with a pledge by the interns to diligently apply their newly acquired skills in their respective assignments, contributing to the holistic documentation and preservation of biodiversity in Himachal Pradesh.
The event served as a platform to raise awareness, foster collaboration, and mobilize action towards safeguarding our State’s rich biodiversity. Through collaborative efforts and individual commitments, we can ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.
