Unlocking Wisdom: CCF Advocates for the Codification of Traditional Ecological Knowledge for Sustainable Practices

JOLLANG, 9 Aug: A two-day national seminar focused on “Democratic Governance and Public Policy for Navigating Climate Change” wrapped up on Saturday at Don Bosco College. The event featured expert insights and research papers aimed at tackling climate change.

Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) Samuel Changkijah emphasized the need to protect and integrate traditional ecological knowledge into policies and education. He highlighted tribal stewardship as essential for climate resilience, advocating for community-led ecotourism and biodiversity farming.

Changkijah explained that traditional ecological knowledge is vital for communities, especially among the tribal groups in Northeast India. This region is home to over 200 tribes, each having unique ways to sustain their environment through practices like sacred groves, jhum cultivation, and terrace farming.

According to studies, traditional knowledge systems enhance biodiversity and can complement modern conservation practices. Changkijah also discussed India’s evolving environmental laws, noting their acknowledgment of traditional ecological knowledge.

He referenced the Pakke Declaration-2047, a significant initiative from the Arunachal Pradesh government, which advocates for community-based conservation and tribal empowerment. This model seeks to achieve ecological justice.

During the seminar, NIT Jote’s Prof. Mihir Kumar Shome discussed the role of public-private partnerships in creating climate-resilient infrastructure. NABARD’s Pankaj Kumar highlighted how agriculture, a key part of India’s economy, is vulnerable to climate change, particularly in Arunachal Pradesh, where issues like drying springs and land degradation are prevalent.

The seminar featured 28 research papers that addressed various themes, including climate adaptation, social justice, and legal issues. It’s clear that combining traditional knowledge with modern approaches could be a game-changer for tackling climate challenges.

This discussion ties into a broader global trend where indigenous practices and community knowledge are gaining recognition in climate policies. According to a recent survey by the UN, 80% of the world’s biodiversity is protected by indigenous lands, showcasing the importance of these practices.

As the dialogue on climate change continues, communities and experts alike are realizing that leveraging historical knowledge may be key to securing a sustainable future.

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