Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Saturday underscored the immense untapped potential of Manipur’s rich biodiversity, calling for its sustainable utilisation to drive socio-economic growth. He was speaking at the foundation day celebrations of the BRIC – Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development (BRIC-IBSD) held at Takyelpat, Imphal.
Highlighting Manipur's wealth of forest-based non-timber products, medicinal plants, aromatic herbs, bamboo, wild edible mushrooms, and insect bioresources, Governor Bhalla noted that these natural assets form the very canvas upon which IBSD pursues its vision of unlocking nature’s potential in a sustainable and scientifically grounded way.
A former Union Home Secretary with deep knowledge of the northeastern region, Bhalla lauded BRIC-IBSD as one of the premier biotechnology research institutes of the Northeast. He emphasized its critical role in promoting the sustainable use of bioresources through biotechnological innovations for the region’s development.
The Governor also praised the central government’s environmental initiatives under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, mentioning programs like the National Water Mission, the National Mission for a Green India, and the National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem.
Turning attention to Manipur’s traditional industries, Bhalla highlighted the significance of the state’s vibrant handloom and handicraft sector. He noted that local artisans and weavers are preserving ancient techniques while innovating with modern designs. He stressed that merging biotechnology with traditional craftsmanship could open new avenues for progress but called for stronger integration of scientific research into practical applications.
Governor Bhalla further underlined the need to build partnerships between traditional healers and scientific communities, encouraging benefit-sharing models and promoting ethno-entrepreneurship based on medicinal plants and fermented foods.
During his visit, the Governor also toured the Genome Sequencing Facility at the Institute and planted a tree on the campus as part of Prime Minister Modi’s ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, promoting environmental consciousness.
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