A three-day training workshop on the conservation and sustainable management of coastal and marine biodiversity for personnel of various services under the ‘Forestry Training and Capacity Building’ programme, sponsored by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India, concluded on 15 November at the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
During the valedictory function, key speakers highlighted the ecological significance of the islands’ fragile ecosystems and the urgent need for comprehensive conservation efforts amid rising environmental pressures.
In his valedictory address, Captain P. Mahajan, Station Flight Safety Officer (SFSO), INS Utkrosh, underscored the importance of critical marine and coastal habitats such as seagrass meadows, coral reefs, mangroves, and their rich biodiversity. He noted that these ecosystems not only support the region’s ecological stability but also play a central role in sustaining local livelihoods dependent on fishing, tourism, and allied sectors. He emphasized that safeguarding these habitats is essential for both community well-being and long-term environmental security.
Dr. Jai Sunder, Director, ICAR-CIARI, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, highlighted the increasing pressure on the islands’ distinctive and sensitive ecosystems. He pointed out that the forests, coastal zones, and marine resources, which form an interconnected ecological network, face growing strain from population expansion, developmental requirements, and the accelerating impacts of climate change. He stressed that these pressures demand proactive measures to protect the islands’ biodiversity for future generations.
Earlier, welcoming the attendees, Dr. C. Sivaperuman, Officer-in-Charge and Course Director, ANRC/ZSI, urged participants to take up the responsibility of becoming “sustainability ambassadors.” He encouraged them to carry forward the knowledge gained from the workshop to their respective departments and communities, contributing to broader awareness and institutional preparedness for biodiversity conservation.
The workshop focused on enhancing cross-sectoral understanding among personnel from different services regarding the ecological importance of the islands’ marine and coastal environments. Participants received training on scientific approaches to conservation, sustainable ecosystem management, and the significance of integrating environmental awareness into administrative and operational roles.
As part of the closing ceremony, the chief guest and special guests distributed certificates to participants who successfully completed the training programme.
The initiative aligns with nationwide efforts to strengthen institutional capacity in environmental protection, particularly in ecologically sensitive regions such as the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. With the islands being home to some of India’s most diverse marine ecosystems, the workshop served as a crucial platform for reinforcing conservation-oriented perspectives among service personnel.
