A workshop on biodiversity and wetland conservation took place at Dandakaranya Aranya Bhawan in Nava Raipur on Monday. The event saw the presence of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, along with prominent figures including Assembly Speaker Dr. Raman Singh, Leader of Opposition Dr. Charan Das Mahant, and Deputy Chief Ministers Arun Sao and Vijay Sharma, alongside other cabinet members and MLAs.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai addressed the gathering, highlighting that Chhattisgarh’s development hinges on environmental sustainability and the preservation of biological diversity, not just infrastructure. He encouraged all citizens and public representatives to consider it their duty to safeguard biodiversity and wetlands by becoming ‘Wetland Mitras,’ thereby turning the initiative into a widespread movement.
Forest Minister Kedar Kashyap, who chaired the workshop, underscored the importance of biodiversity and wetland conservation, stating that it ensures the safety of future generations. He called upon all representatives to engage in these conservation efforts and raise public awareness by participating as Wetland Mitras.
Rakesh Chaturvedi, the Chhattisgarh Biodiversity Board Chairman, gave a detailed presentation covering the 1992 Earth Summit, the Biodiversity Act of 2002, the role of the National Biodiversity Board, and the structures and functions of Biodiversity Management Committees. He pointed out that Chhattisgarh is among the top three states where these committees are effectively operational.
Arun Kumar Pandey, the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, spoke on the crucial role of wetlands in maintaining ecological equilibrium. He explained the workings of the State Wetland Authority and the process of establishing district-level wetland conservation committees, emphasizing how these committees are improving local-level wetland monitoring and preservation.
The workshop concluded with an appeal for all officials and public representatives to join as Wetland Mitras and actively contribute to the conservation of biodiversity and wetlands. This involvement is expected to foster a mass environmental awareness campaign across the state. Key attendees included Chief Secretary Amitabh Jain, Additional Chief Secretary (Forests) Richa Sharma, Chhattisgarh Forest Force Chief V. Srinivas Rao, and several senior officials and experts from the Biodiversity Board.