Chief Minister Pema Khandu recently unveiled the “Arunachal Pradesh State Biodiversity Strategy and Action: A Peoples Plan.” This plan aims to meet the goals outlined in the Pakke Declaration, focusing on the state’s biodiversity needs.
The action plan is available in both print and digital formats. It gives local communities and indigenous groups clear steps they can take to protect their environment, backed by government support.
Khandu expressed his gratitude to organizations like WWF and state departments for their crucial input in developing this strategy. He emphasized that the plan aligns with the vision of inclusive growth—a principle that encourages collaboration among all stakeholders.
"This plan supports the five key themes of the Pakke Declaration: environment, climate resilience, well-being, sustainable livelihoods, and collaborative action," he noted. By aligning with these themes, the plan also contributes to India’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), keeping Arunachal at the forefront of conservation efforts.
Khandu highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s approach to balancing development with environmental conservation. Modi’s vision of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat” champions sustainability and ecological preservation as essential for future generations. Over the years, India has launched several initiatives aimed at environmental sustainability, including:
- Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE): Encourages sustainable living habits.
- National Mission for Green India: Aims to expand forest cover and restore damaged ecosystems.
- Jal Jeevan Mission: Focuses on providing clean water and promoting its conservation.
- Namami Ganga and National River Conservation Plan: Works to protect and revitalize India’s rivers.
- International Solar Alliance: A global effort to boost renewable energy use.
These initiatives harmonize with Arunachal Pradesh’s biodiversity strategy, promoting economic development while prioritizing conservation.
Khandu, who had suggested creating this plan during an inception workshop in 2022, expressed pride in the collective effort that led to this comprehensive strategy. He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to sustainable development while protecting its biodiversity.
Arunachal Pradesh boasts a rich variety of landscapes and cultures, which allows its communities to live harmoniously with nature. The Chief Minister believes that this action plan will enhance conservation efforts and potentially set a global example.
Moreover, he ensured that implementing this plan would be a top priority for the state government. “We are dedicated to safeguarding our natural resources, empowering local communities, and ensuring that growth and conservation go together,” he stated.
To ensure effective monitoring, a special cell will be created in the Chief Minister’s Office. This cell will oversee the implementation of both the biodiversity plan and various government projects.
Khandu also emphasized that caring for biodiversity is a shared responsibility, not solely a government task. Each individual must contribute to environmental stewardship for any plan to succeed.
He encouraged young students from local universities at the launch event to help spread awareness about the action plan on social media. Sharing this plan widely is crucial to engage more young people in environmental responsibilities.
In essence, Khandu’s call to action underscores the idea that to create meaningful change, everyone must be involved in protecting the environment. By working together, communities can ensure their rich natural heritage is preserved for future generations.
For more on India’s initiatives in environmental conservation, see the government’s report on the SDGs here.
Check out this related article: “Urgent Call from Olympians: IOC Must Champion Climate Action Against Rising Environmental Threats” – The Times of India
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