N.N. Vohra, Governor, today inaugurated a two day International Conference on “Change In Cryosphere and Impact on Ecosystem Services and Rural Livelihood: Understanding Local Adaptation in the Himalayan Region” at the Institute of Mountain Environment (IME) in Bhaderwah Campus of Jammu University.The Governor stressed the need for generating awareness and evolving innovative approaches for the protection and conservation of the Cryosphere. He said that the Cryosphere is a vital part of the global climate system and its erosion and depletion can lead to a situation in which the whole world will cry and the very existence of all life on planet Earth shall be severely threatened.
The Governor said that the process of urbanization has led to unplanned growth and disruption of the natural contours and impeded the paths on which waters flow. Fracturing the geography of the earth has resulted in mega disasters, virtually on a recurring basis. He said that continued interferences with the natural balance have generated varied threats to the very survival of mankind and other life forms on Earth.The Governor complimented the Jammu University for establishment of IME and hoped that this institution would develop as a pioneer in researches related to evolving sound principles and practical approaches for saving the fragile Himalayan Mountain system. He suggested linking IME with various national and international institutions of excellence all over the world.Prof. M.P.S. Ishar, Vice Chancellor, Jammu University and His Holiness, the Drikung Skyabgon Che-Tsang Rinpochey (supreme head of the Drikung Kargyud Lineage of Tibetan Buddhism) spoke about global warming and resulting temperature changes, glacier melting and evolving different methodologies and innovative ideas to conserve the Nature. His Holiness Che-Tsang Rinpochey stressed planting large number of green trees and efficient use of available water resources.
Earlier, on arrival at the Bhaderwah Campus, the Governor was welcomed by the children of Kindergarten School of the Bhaderwah Campus. The Governor inaugurated Building Complex of Institute of Mountain Environment here and visited newly created facilities and laboratories of the Institute. On the occasion, Dr. Neeraj Sharma, Assisstant Professor Life Sciences, IME, gave a brief on the ongoing and future research plans of the IME. The Governor also released the brochure of IME here.On the occasion, the Governor launched Northwest Himalayan e-flora website and Ice Stupa Glacier Project. He also released Proceedings and Abstract Volume of the Conference and a book, titled,” Environment, Society, and Economy of Zanskar, Ladakh, J&K- written by Chhering Tundup. Professor Harjeet Singh from Jawahar Lal Nehru University, New Delhi, was given Life time achievement Award. Prof. G. M. Bhat gave a power point presentation on “Recent Floods in J&K and future Developmental Strategy”.
The Welcome Address was given by Professor G.M. Bhat, Rector Bhaderwah Campus and Vote of Thanks was given by Chhering Tundup, Assisstant professor Earth Sciences, IME.Mr. Naresh Gupta, MLC; Sham Vinod Meena, Deputy Commissioner, Doda; Ashkoor Wani, DIG, Doda- Ramban; Sharief Chauhan, SSP, Doda; Bopinder Kumar, SDM, Bhaderwah; teachers, students among others were present on the occasion. (KNS)