Arunachal CM calls for collective action to protect biodiversity

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has called for collective commitment to protect biodiversity and preserve ecosystems, highlighting the intrinsic link between human well-being and environmental health.

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Friday called for renewed collective commitment towards protecting biodiversity and preserving the rich diversity of life on the planet, stressing that human well-being is intrinsically linked to the health of ecosystems.

Marking the International Day for Biological Diversity, Khandu, in a social media post, urged people to strengthen efforts towards environmental conservation and sustainable living.

''On the occasion of the International Day for Biological Diversity, let us reaffirm our collective commitment to protecting and preserving the rich diversity of life on our planet,'' the chief minister said in a post on X.

Emphasising the interdependence between humanity and nature, Khandu stated that the observance serves as a reminder that ecological balance and sustainable development must go hand in hand.

''This year's theme, 'Harmony with Nature and Sustainable Development', reminds us that the well-being of humanity is deeply interconnected with the health of our ecosystems,'' he added.

Khandu's message assumes significance for the state, one of the country's most ecologically rich states and part of the Eastern Himalayan biodiversity hotspot.

The state is home to vast forest cover, rare flora and fauna, diverse tribal cultures and several endangered species, making environmental conservation a critical aspect of its developmental policies.

The International Day for Biological Diversity is observed annually on May 22 to increase awareness and understanding of biodiversity-related issues.

The day commemorates the adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity and highlights the global need to conserve ecosystems, protect wildlife and promote sustainable use of natural resources.

In recent years, Arunachal Pradesh has intensified efforts towards balancing infrastructure growth and environmental protection through community-based conservation, sustainable tourism initiatives, wildlife protection measures and climate-resilient development strategies.