University of Ladakh, Leh Campus Hosts Three-Day National Workshop on Biodiversity and Conservation in the Himalayan Region (NWBC-2023)

Press Note University of Ladakh, Leh Campus Hosts Three-Day National Workshop on Biodiversity and Conservation in the Himalayan Region (NWBC-2023) Leh, [25/09/2023] — In a concerted effort to tackle the pressing environmental challenges facing in the Himalayan region, the University of Ladakh, Leh Campus organized a three-day National Workshop on Biodiversity and Conservation in the Himalayan Region. The event, hosted by the Department of Zoology and Mountain Research Institute, aimed to bring together experts, policymakers, researchers, and conservation enthusiasts to address critical issues concerning biodiversity and its sustainable preservation in the Himalayan region. The inaugural session of the workshop commenced with a formal welcome to all the esteemed guests, marked by traditional Khatak greetings and the lighting of the lamp.Dr. Om Prakash Chaurasia, Director of DIHAR, was the Chief guest of the Inaugural session of the workshop. The Honorable Vice Chancellor and other dignitaries released the abstract book of the workshop. In his welcome speech, Honorable Vice Chancellor Prof. S.K. Mehta highlighted the Himalayan region's unique and diverse ecosystems, emphasizing their ecological significance and the invaluable resources and services they provide to millions of people within the region and beyond. However, he noted that this fragile ecosystem faces unprecedented threats due to climate change, habitat degradation, deforestation, and unsustainable human activities. The workshop featured keynote addresses by renowned experts, including Dr. Krishna Kanth Pulicherla (DST, GOI), Dr. Eklabya Sharma, Strategic Advisor & Distinguished Senior Fellow at Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment, Bangalore and Dr. Archana Mantri, Vice Chancellor, Chitkara University, Punjab, in the field of biodiversity and conservation. These speakers emphasized the importance of knowledge exchange, sharing experiences, and discussing research findings among scientists, conservationists, and policymakers to enhance the understanding of Himalayan biodiversity. They also stressed the significance of involving local communities in conservation efforts and empowering them with knowledge and resources. At the conclusion of the session, the chief guest, Dr. Om Prakash Chaurasia, Director DIHAR, addressed the audience. He underscored the paramount importance of the conservation of the biodiversity of the Himalayan region. Dr. Chaurasia's words resonated with the audience, reaffirming the collective commitment to safeguarding the fragile and invaluable ecosystems of the Himalayas. In closing, Dr. Mohd Hussain, Convenor of the workshop, expressed gratitude to various supporters, including DST-SERB, LAHDC LEH, NABARD, Snow Leopard Conservancy India Trust, Stone Hedge, ICICI Bank and J&K Bank for their contributions and necessary assistance, which made the conference a resounding success. This National Workshop on Biodiversity and Conservation in the Himalayan Region represents a crucial step towards addressing environmental challenges and fostering sustainable conservation efforts in one of the world's most ecologically significant regions.