Sri Vijaya Puram, Nov. 24: The valedictory function of the three-day training workshop on Coastal and Marine Biodiversity of Island Ecosystem organized by Zoological Survey of India was held in the Auditorium of ZSI, here this evening. The Chief Secretary, A&N Administration, Shri Keshav Chandra, IAS was the Chief Guest on the occasion while the Dr. S. Dinesh Kannan, IFS, Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), Department of Environment and Forests; Captain P. Mahajan, Station Flight Safety Officer (SFSO), INS Utkrosh, was the special Guests. The program was attended by students, teachers, members from Zilla Parishad, Officials from Department of Environment & Forests, AATO, Forensic Unit, BSI, and staff/officials of ZSI. The training course was conducted in both class room exercise and field practical training, there were eight different talks on the Coastal and Marine Biodiversity of Island ecosystem delivered by expert in the fields.  The field training provided in the intertidal areas of Burmanella, and Chidiyatappu Biological Park.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Secretary commended the efforts of Zoological Survey of India, A&N Regional Centre in creating awareness among the students and teaching communities of this islands on the marine biodiversity and sustainable developments. This initiative is an excellent effort to connect every student, citizen, and community member with the unique biodiversity of our islands. It is a commendable step towards fostering awareness about the treasures of this island ecosystem.  As these islands recognized as one of the biodiversity hotspots of the world and showcasing an unparalleled richness of flora and fauna. The unique and irreplaceable biodiversity of these islands is not just a scientific or environmental marvel; it is a source of life, livelihoods, and inspiration. The responsibility lies with all of us to conserve and preserve this richness for future generations.  This training workshop are invaluable because they not only impart knowledge but also cultivate a deeper appreciation for the ecosystems that surround us.  Awareness is the first step toward action, and by fostering a sense of responsibility among participants, we are taking a significant stride toward safeguarding our natural heritage. He also highlighted the remarkable biodiversity of this islands, from rich marine ecosystems to endemic species of birds and turtles. The species like Nicobar Pigeons, Nicobar Megapode, Narcondam Hornbill and Leatherback Sea Turtle are not only ecological treasures but also significant attractions for niche tourism.  Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts from around the world are eager to experience the uniqueness of these islands. Recently, the unveiling of the bird policy for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands marked a significant step towards structured conservation. This is the first bird policy in the entire country, a visionary approach to preserving and promoting our avian diversity. He said as participants of this workshop now have a critical role to play as their understanding of the unique biodiversity of these islands is now enriched it is important to take this knowledge back to your communities and share it. Biodiversity conservation to succeed, it must translate into tangible economic benefits for the local population. Whether through eco-tourism, sustainable livelihoods, or policy frameworks, integrating conservation with economic development will ensure long-term success.

Dr. S. Dinesh Kannan in his address highlighted the two aspects of the workshops; first and foremost, the selection of the target audience was exemplary. The workshop was primarily dedicated to students and teachers, an audience that is pivotal in disseminating knowledge and creating awareness about biodiversity conservation. Students and teachers serve as catalysts of change, and empowering them with accurate and practical knowledge ensures the spread of environmental awareness across generations. Secondly, the methodology of this program deserves special mention. The combination of classroom sessions with field visits provided participants a comprehensive understanding of biodiversity. Classroom learning was reinforced by the physical observation of ecosystems in the field, enabling participants to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world experiences. He said that during these sessions, many of the participants had witnessed the marvels of nature for the first time such as coral reefs, mangroves, or lichens. Visualizing lichens in text book and seeing them in their natural habitat and must have been an enriching experience. Lichens are not just remarkable organisms; they are also excellent indicators of air quality.  He highly appreciated ZSI for conducting this kind of training workshop on regular interval basis for the island students and teachers.

Captain P. Mahajan congratulated ZSI for organizing such an impactful program and for their unwavering commitment in empowering participants with the knowledge and tools needed to protect these ecosystems. Understanding ecosystem is essential for maintaining a delicate balance of life on Earth, and ensuring the sustainability of natural resources. He also mentioned the collaboration of INS Utkrosh with ZSI in studying the ecosystems that exist within airports. The objective was not only to preserve these ecosystems as they are but to make them non-conducive for birds and other wildlife because their presence poses significant risks to flight safety. This involves identifying the environmental factors that attract birds to such locations and then altering those factors carefully. He also highlighted that, the workshops like this serve as timely reminders of the critical need for knowledge, collaboration and action. He urged the participants to carry forward the inspiration of these three days transform awareness into action and apply it in your respective fields and communities.

Earlier, Dr. Sivaperuman, Course co-ordinator and Officer-in-Charge, greeted the dignities, and guest invites. In his welcome address, he presented the objectives and reported of the training workshop. He also highlighted the role of Zoological survey of India, Andaman and Nicobar Regional Centre in organizing various level of training courses.  The Chief Guest and Special Guests distributed the certificates to the participants and the programme concluded with a vote of thanks.