IMPHAL — The Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) Climate Change Conclave kicked off in Imphal on Thursday. This two-day event focuses on research, policy, and communication regarding climate resilience in the Indian Himalayan region, which includes twelve states.
Chief Secretary Dr. Puneet Kumar Goel opened the conclave, highlighting its importance in fostering collaboration between Himalayan states to tackle climate challenges and support sustainable development. He mentioned the government’s efforts in managing five key wetlands—Yaral Pat, Utra Pat, Zaimeng Lake, Waithou-Pumlen-Koidum Pat, and Loktak Lake—showcasing nature-based solutions to combat climate change.
Dr. Goel praised the Directorate of Environment and Climate Change (DoECC) for its proactive initiatives, integrating traditional knowledge to strengthen community resilience. He hopes this conclave will yield useful recommendations for protecting the Himalayan ecosystem.
The event included discussions led by various experts. The first technical session featured Prof. (retd.) Dr. NH Ravindranath from IISc Bengaluru, who focused on recent climate research in the Himalayas. Other notable speakers included state representatives from Himachal Pradesh, West Bengal, and Jammu and Kashmir.
The second session centered on “Climate-resilient practices.” Dr. H Birkumar Singh, Chief Scientist at CSIR-NEIST, discussed adaptation strategies specific to the IHR. Topics covered included community-driven resilience models, sustainable lifestyles, and innovative solutions in agriculture and forestry.
Experts and panellists gathered to share insights, making the event a crucial space for knowledge exchange. Attendees included government officials, scientists, and representatives from various sectors within the Indian Himalayan region.
The conclave will wrap up with discussions and a closing session on October 17, which Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla is expected to attend.
As climate change increasingly impacts vulnerable regions, initiatives like this conclave become vital. According to a recent report by the United Nations, the Himalayas are warming faster than the global average, accelerating glacial melting and affecting water supply for millions. Engaging local communities and integrating traditional knowledge with scientific approaches may help build resilience against these changes.
Efforts like those discussed at the conclave are essential for crafting effective policies and practices that address both immediate and long-term impacts of climate change in the Himalayas. You can read more about this at the United Nations Climate Change website.
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Indian Himalayan Region, Climate Change Conclave
