Arunachal deputy CM calls for balancing development with environmental sustainability

Itanagar, Jul 6 (PTI) Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein on Monday called for balancing development with environmental sustainability. Speaking at the 'Van Mahotsav' celebrations here, he urged the youth to preserve the state's rich biodiversity, indigenous knowledge and cultural heritage. Mein said biodiversity, cultural diversity and sustainable development are closely linked and must be protected together. Emphasising that true progress lies in embracing modernity without losing cultural roots, the deputy chief minister urged the youth to preserve and promote Arunachal Pradesh's indigenous traditions, saying these practices have enabled communities to live in harmony with nature for generations. He said tree plantation drives should not end with planting saplings but success should be measured by the number of trees that survive. Expressing concern over the high mortality of saplings planted along roadsides and in public institutions, Mein appealed to schools, government departments, community organisations and citizens to take collective responsibility for nurturing every tree planted. He said Arunachal Pradesh is part of one of the world's 12 biodiversity hotspots and is home to diverse ecosystems ranging from tropical evergreen forests to alpine regions. Researchers, he said, continue to discover new species of plants, insects, amphibians, fish and wildlife in the state, highlighting its ecological importance. Calling for greater efforts to protect rare and endangered plant species, Mein said taxonomy and ethnobotanical research play a vital role in documenting and conserving the region's unique biodiversity. He encouraged students and researchers to develop scientific curiosity and contribute to conservation efforts. The deputy chief minister said environmental conservation and sustainable development must go hand in hand, adding that protecting forests, rivers and watersheds not only conserves biodiversity but also strengthens livelihoods, improves water security and supports rural development. He also expressed concern over indiscriminate hunting and the declining population of birds and wildlife, urging communities to promote responsible eco-tourism, bird-watching, trekking and other nature-based activities that generate sustainable livelihoods while protecting the environment. Highlighting the close spiritual and cultural relationship between Arunachal Pradesh's indigenous communities and nature, Mein said traditional respect for forests, rivers and mountains offers valuable lessons for sustainable living and should continue to guide future development. Referring to climate change, global warming, floods, landslides and soil erosion, he said these challenges underscore the need to maintain ecological balance. "Development must always be planned with environmental sustainability at its core," he said. Mein also praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of the Northeast as 'Ashtalakshmi', saying the goal of 'Viksit Bharat' can be achieved only through the inclusive development of the region while preserving its biodiversity and cultural heritage. During the programme, the deputy chief minister was presented with Ophiorrhiza chownaii, a newly described plant species named in his honour for his contributions to environmental conservation, biodiversity protection and sustainable development. Accepting the recognition, he dedicated the honour to the people of Arunachal Pradesh and reaffirmed his commitment to protecting the state's natural heritage. The event was organised by the state regional centre of Botanical Survey of India (BSI) in collaboration with the G B Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment (GBPNIHE), North East Regional Centre, here. The event began with a plantation drive at the BSI campus where Mein, along with scientists, academicians, researchers, NCC cadets and students, planted saplings as a mark of commitment towards environmental conservation. PTI UPL UPL ACD