Need to redefine development in the era of climate change
Lucknow/Sri Vijaya Puram, Nov. 5: The Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, former Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament and former Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Dr. Dinesh Sharma, stated that climate change could pose a threat to the very existence of island territories. Rising temperatures, increasing sea levels and the growing intensity of cyclones are further aggravating this crisis. Some of the low-lying islands of Andaman and Nicobar require special action plans to address these challenges.
Addressing a seminar on the topic “The Future of Islands in the Era of Climate Change – With Special Reference to Andaman and Nicobar”, the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor said that, in view of this crisis, there is a need to redefine development. Development must be pursued in a manner that goes hand in hand with the conservation of nature. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, besides serving as Guardians of India’s Borders, also remind us of our responsibility towards nature. The waves of the sea should convey the message of life.
He stated that climate change is also affecting the social life and traditions of the island communities. Human civilisation can remain safe not by confronting nature, but only by establishing harmony with it. It is with this very vision that the mantra of progress along with the conservation of nature has been embraced in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The natural beauty of Andaman and other islands is truly remarkable, making them major attractions for tourists; however, climate change is now posing a threat to this very natural beauty.
Describing the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as a symbol of India’s strategic strength, natural wealth and cultural diversity, Dr. Sharma said that there is a need to understand the gravity of this crisis and take appropriate action. The coastal areas of the Islands and their inhabitants share an inseparable relationship with the sea. Rising sea levels may not only affect land areas but also pose challenges to drinking water availability, agriculture, fisheries.
To address these challenges, it is essential, first and foremost, to conserve the forests and coral reefs that serve as natural protective barriers and help reduce the impact of sea waves and cyclones. A better balance must be maintained between development activities and the conservation of nature. Along with the adoption of clean energy, effective arrangements for rainwater harvesting are also essential. The experiences and traditional knowledge of local and tribal communities can prove significant in mitigating this crisis.
He further stated that in the coming years, Andaman and Nicobar Islands will emerge as a major centre for maritime trade and serve as a foundation for India’s progress towards becoming one of the prosperous nations of the world. The development activities to be undertaken in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the coming years will also strengthen the country’s strategic capabilities.
On the occasion, eminent scientists Dr. C.M. Nautiyal Ji, Dr. Mukund Sharma Ji, Dr. Dhruv Sen Singh Ji, Dr. Atma Prakash Misra Ji, Dr. Venkatesh Dutta Ji, Prof. Kanchan Lata Ji, Prof. Shalini Srivastava Ji, Councillor, Shri Swadesh Singh Ji, Prof. Poonam Verma Ji and others were present.