Agartala, October 6: Tripura will work towards strengthening its biodiversity conservation framework while ensuring a balance between human activities and the natural environment, Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma said on Tuesday.
Debbarma was speaking at a state-level consultation workshop on conservation, protection and sustainable management of biodiversity in Tripura, organised by the Tripura Biodiversity Board at Pragna Bhaban here.
The minister inaugurated the workshop, which brought together scientists, biodiversity experts, members of Biodiversity Management Committees (BMCs), local representatives and other stakeholders for consultations on the finalisation of the Tripura Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (SBSAP).
Addressing the media, Debbarma said the consultation would provide an opportunity for a final round of discussions on the proposed biodiversity strategy and action plan.
He said the state has rich biodiversity and that its conservation requires coordinated efforts involving government agencies, scientific institutions, local communities and other stakeholders.
The minister stressed the need to promote coexistence between people and nature, including wildlife, forests, rivers and other water bodies.
He said the government would seek to strengthen Tripura's identity as a green state while ensuring that development activities do not undermine ecological balance.
The proposed SBSAP will incorporate suggestions and practical inputs from scientists, experts, BMC members and local communities, Debbarma said.
He described the strategy as a roadmap for protecting the state's biological resources and promoting their sustainable management.
The minister also called upon government employees and other stakeholders to move beyond routine administrative practices and contribute innovative ideas and practical solutions to environmental challenges.
Government service, he said, provides employees with the opportunity to experiment with new approaches and undertake pilot initiatives instead of remaining confined to conventional practices.
Debbarma urged Biodiversity Management Committees and local communities to identify and implement practical solutions for conserving biodiversity in their respective areas.
He assured participants that innovative ideas and meaningful initiatives aimed at strengthening biodiversity conservation would be considered within the government system.
The consultation is expected to help shape a comprehensive strategy for biodiversity conservation in Tripura while addressing issues related to sustainable development and ecological protection.
The workshop also provided a platform for different stakeholders to share field-level experiences and suggestions that could be incorporated into the state's biodiversity action plan.
Officials said the final strategy would seek to strengthen conservation efforts and encourage sustainable management of natural resources while maintaining the ecological balance of the state.
