Sri Vijaya Puram, May 25: (PIB) The Zoological Survey of India, Andaman & Nicobar Regional Centre, Sri Vijaya Puram, successfully conducted various activities as a part of celebrations of the International Day for Biological Diversity 2026 and the valedictory function held on 25th May, 2026 at the ZSI with the theme “Acting Locally for Global Impact”. The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from students across South Andaman, North & Middle Andaman and Nicobar Districts. A total of 54 students from various school and college participated in various competitions including drawing, photography, storytelling and crafts making, highlighting the importance of biodiversity conservation and environmental awareness among the younger generation. Dr. S. Dinesh Kannan, IFS, Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), Department of Environment and Forests, A & N Islands was the Chief Guest for the valedictory function and Dr. Jai Sunder, Director, ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute, A & N Islands was the special guest.
Dr. S. Dinesh Kannan in his valedictory address highlighted about the significance of biological diversity and its vital role in sustaining life on Earth. He explained that biodiversity represents the variety of living organisms, including plants, animals, and microorganisms, and emphasized that diversity is essential for maintaining ecological balance and supporting human well-being. He stated that the world is home to thousands of species of plants and animals, and referred to the estimates of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), which has documented nearly 1.5 million species globally, while many more species are yet to be identified and documented. He highlighted that biodiversity provides numerous direct and indirect benefits to humanity, including food, medicines, oxygen, pollination, aesthetic value, and ecological stability.
Dr. Dinesh Kannan further pointed out that biodiversity is under severe threat due to habitat loss and fragmentation, overexploitation of natural resources, invasive alien species, and co-extinction. He also emphasized that the loss of pollinators such as bees can seriously affect ecosystems and food production. Further, he explained the importance of both in-situ and ex-situ conservation methods, including the protection of species within their natural habitats through national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, as well as conservation through zoos, safaris, and cryo-preservation techniques.
Referring to the theme of the year, “Acting Locally for Global Impact,” he urged students, parents, and citizens to adopt environmentally responsible practices in their daily lives. He stressed the importance of reducing plastic pollution, conserving water and electricity, proper waste disposal, and maintaining cleanliness to protect biodiversity and fragile ecosystems, particularly in island regions like the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. He further encouraged students to become environmentally conscious and actively participate in biodiversity conservation through small but meaningful local actions, noting that collective efforts can create a significant global impact in addressing biodiversity loss and climate change. He appreciated the efforts of the ZSI-ANRC, in organizing awareness programmes and competitions that promote environmental education and conservation awareness among students and the general public.
Dr. Jai Sunder in his felicitation address emphasized the importance of biodiversity conservation and sustainable development in the ecologically sensitive Andaman & Nicobar Islands. He noted that the A & N Islands are exceptionally rich in floral, faunal, marine, and mangrove diversity, with several endemic and unique species including the Narcondam Hornbill and Andaman Wild Pig. He further stated that climate change, rising temperatures, sea-level rise, and increasing pressure on natural resources are major concerns that require urgent conservation efforts. Dr. Jai Sunder also underlined the importance of sustainable agriculture, citizen participation, and environmental awareness among students and local communities. He encouraged the younger generation to actively contribute towards biodiversity conservation through activities such as tree plantation and protection of natural ecosystems. He appreciated the efforts of the ZSI-ANRC in organizing awareness programmes and competitions to promote conservation education among students and citizens.
Earlier, Dr. C. Sivaperuman, Scientist-F & Officer-in-Charge, welcomed the dignitaries, students, media representatives, and guests. In his address, he emphasized that biodiversity forms the foundation of life on Earth and supports food, water, medicine, climate regulation and ecological balance. Also highlighted the importance of every living organism in maintaining healthy ecosystems, including pollinators, forests, coral reefs, mangroves, and microorganisms. He spoke about major threats to biodiversity such as habitat destruction, pollution, climate change, invasive species, and overexploitation of natural resources. He explained the significance of the 2026 theme “Acting Locally for Global Impact” and stressed that small local actions can collectively create major global environmental benefits. He encouraged students and citizens to adopt environmentally responsible practices such as tree plantation, reducing plastic use, conserving water and electricity, and spreading awareness about biodiversity conservation. He also highlighted the various activities organized by the EIACP Centre on Island Biodiversity and the ZSI, including drawing, craft making, photography, storytelling competitions, awareness programmes for PRI members and coastal clean-up activities at Swaraj Dweep and Shaheed Dweep.
He mentioned the significance of the International Day for Biological Diversity observed globally on 22nd May under the Convention on Biological Diversity. He also referred to the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and its global conservation goals for restoring ecosystems and protecting biodiversity by 2030. He emphasized the ecological importance and fragile nature of the biodiversity-rich Andaman & Nicobar Islands and the collective responsibility to conserve this natural heritage for future generations.
Finally, the valedictory function concluded with the distribution of certificates to the winners and participants of the competitions.
