ITANAGAR, March 14: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu released the “Arunachal Pradesh State Biodiversity Strategy and Action: A Peoples Plan”, with the goal of fulfilling the Pakke Declaration and achieving the National Biodiversity Targets. The State Biodiversity Action Plan, available in both hard copy and digital formats, outlines clear, localized action points designed to empower communities, districts, and indigenous groups to take charge of their environment with government support.
During the launch, Khandu expressed his gratitude to WWF, the State Biodiversity Board, and the Department of Environment & Forests and Climate Change for their contributions in shaping the document. He highlighted the plan’s alignment with the vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, and Sabka Prayas”—promoting inclusive and sustainable growth driven by collective efforts. The plan also supports the Pakke Declaration’s five themes: environment, climate resilience, well-being, sustainable livelihoods, and collaborative action. Khandu stressed that it would significantly contribute to India’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and enhance the state’s role in global conservation efforts.
Khandu referenced Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s emphasis on balancing development with environmental conservation. He praised initiatives such as LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), the National Mission for Green India, the Jal Jeevan Mission, Namami Ganga, and the International Solar Alliance as crucial steps in preserving the environment. Khandu noted that these national initiatives align well with Arunachal Pradesh’s biodiversity strategy, reinforcing the state’s commitment to conservation and sustainable economic growth.
Reflecting on his participation in the inception workshop of the action plan in 2022, Khandu recalled his suggestion for WWF and the Department of Environment & Forests and Climate Change to develop a strategy in a comprehensive book format. He expressed pride in the progress made and emphasized that the document will provide a sustainable development pathway while safeguarding the state’s rich biodiversity.
The Chief Minister highlighted Arunachal Pradesh’s diverse geography and rich cultural traditions as a foundation for the state’s deep connection with nature, underscoring that the state’s indigenous communities have long lived in harmony with their environment. Khandu affirmed that the implementation of this action plan would be a top priority for his government.
Additionally, a dedicated cell will be established in the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) to monitor the implementation of the state biodiversity plan, as well as projects announced in the state Budget 2025-26. The plan will be rolled out at all levels, including at the grassroots through gram panchayats, ensuring the active involvement of communities in the process.
Khandu reminded the public that biodiversity conservation is a shared responsibility. “Biodiversity is our responsibility and not only of the government. Until and unless we own and fulfil our responsibilities towards our environment, no government action plan will be successful,” he stated. He also urged students from DNG College, Rajiv Gandhi University, and NERIST who attended the launch to share the action plan on social media, encouraging wider youth participation in environmental awareness.
The Chief Minister concluded by urging everyone to review the action plan, understand their roles, and actively participate in the conservation of Arunachal Pradesh’s natural wealth.
