The valedictory function of the Three Day Training Workshop on Conservation and Sustainable Management of Coastal and Marine Biodiversity of Island Ecosystem for the Personnel of Other Services under the “Forestry Training and Capacity Building” sponsored by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India held on 15th November 2025.

Captain P. Mahajan, Station Flight Safety Officer (SFSO), INS Utkrosh, Indian Navy, Sri Vijaya Puram was the Chief Guest and Dr. Jai Sunder, Director, ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute, A & N Islands was the special Guest. The workshop featured a series of insightful lectures along with field based practical exposure visit. Total of 28 participants attended the workshop from Indian Coast Guard, INS Jarawa, Indian Army, CISF, Air Force and other departments.

In his valedictory address, Captain P. Mahajan highlighted the importance of marine and coastal habitats, such as sea grass, coral reefs, mangroves, and the abundant marine biodiversity of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. He emphasised that these ecosystems support local livelihoods, such as fishing, tourism, and related sectors. He emphasised that the erosion of coastal and marine environments over time had affected the delicate ecological balance of island ecosystems. He pointed out that the communities and means of subsistence of the islanders are immediately impacted by any disruption to these ecosystems. Workshops for capacity building are crucial for bolstering conservation efforts and developing an informed and conscious workforce, he recognised.

 

Dr. Jai Sunder in address conveyed his gratitude and honour for participating in the Three-Day Training Workshop's closing ceremony. He expressed gratitude to the 28 officials who participated from different organisations, saying that their varied representation highlights the significance and applicability of biodiversity protection. He highlighted that the forests, coastal habitats, and marine resources that make up the Andaman & Nicobar Islands' distinctive and delicate ecosystem are under growing strain from population increase, development demands, and climate change. He called on the participants to use the information and abilities they acquired from the lectures, workshops and field trips in their departments, saying they are now ambassadors for conservation. To achieve national and international environmental goals, effective conservation necessitates cooperation, teamwork, and interdepartmental synergy. He urged everyone to take on the role of sustainability ambassadors, raising awareness in their communities and departments. He wished everyone involved well in their next conservation endeavours and reiterated the need of putting training into practice.

Earlier, Dr. C. Sivaperuman, Officer-in-Charge & Course Director, ANRC/ZSI welcomed the gathering. He urged everyone to take on the role of sustainability ambassadors, raising awareness in their communities and departments. He expressed gratitude to the department heads for their proactive assistance in nominating officials to attend the training. He wished everyone involved well in their next conservation endeavours and reiterated the need of putting training into practice. The certificates were given to the attendees by the chief guests and special guests.

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TV/SH

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