The document summarizes a Forest Foods and Ecology Festival held in New Delhi from December 12-14, 2014. Over 375 people from 23 forest dependent communities across 13 Indian states participated, bringing over 1200 varieties of uncultivated forest foods. The festival began with a day-long national conference on forest foods highlighting their importance for food security and the need to protect forest habitats. Community representatives discussed challenges to their culture and forests. The festival celebrated India's rich bio-cultural heritage of wild foods consumed by indigenous peoples and the importance of forest foods and cultures.
Presentation on International Forest Day 2020 Md Najmus SakibMdNajmusSakib
Md. Najmus Sakib is the District Team Leader of Climate Finance Transparency Mechanism Project of COAST Trust. He presented the presentation on International Forest Day 2020 at the Department of Forest, Patuakhali.
Ecotourism is a part of environmental conservation, and understanding what the needs of the people are who are local to the area so that you can help to improve their quality of life. It also involves learning more about the history of other cities and preserving the historical landmarks.
Here in my research I need to identify the scope and development of ecotourism. And the management of ecotourism in both government and non-government organizations.
Research Objectives are thought to be as follows:-
1. To determine the volume of tourism in ecological areas and other areas in Bangladesh.
2. Find out the opportunities for developing ecotourism.
3. Identify the pros and cons of ecotourism on the local communities of Bangladesh.
Bangladesh is a gift of nature. This country is an attractive ecotourism destination in south Asia (Bhuiyanet al.2010). Its natural resources, ecological advantages and situated in an important geographical nerve point are great pleasure for developing ecotourism here. Bangladesh has a host of tourist treasurers to offer to tourists- beaches, lakes, rivers, hills, forests, wildlife, tribal life, archaeological remains, including historical monuments, folklore, religious and cultural heritage, handicrafts and much more. All these combinations are enormous ecotourism products. The country, having tourism potential, must be conscious in developing market. The country has its potential to differentiate its product for its uniqueness. Therefore, ecotourism industry of Bangladesh must arrange its different elements such a way that give its better satisfaction to the visitors of the world.
This article intents to draw the attention of the developing countries in Africa and Asia to pay attention to the preservation and conservation of the natural world/environment. It also identifies some of the reasons as to why it is not possible for some countries to join the campaign that calls for the friendly co-existence with nature.
This document discusses the importance of biodiversity conservation. It begins by defining biodiversity and noting its origins throughout geological history. Examples are given of how loss of biodiversity, such as through China's "Four Pests" campaign which targeted sparrows, can have disastrous consequences like widespread famine. Today, biodiversity loss increases the risk of zoonotic diseases transferring to humans. India is highlighted as one of the most biodiverse countries, yet also facing threats to many species. The document stresses that conservation efforts are needed to protect biodiversity for continued ecosystem services and human well-being.
Cool australia biodiversity 5&6 presentationCool Australia
This document discusses biodiversity and some of Earth's strange animal species. It defines biodiversity as the variety of living things on Earth, from microbes to polar bears. Humans are threatening biodiversity through activities like pollution, deforestation, introducing invasive species, and climate change. Conserving biodiversity is important because it maintains ecosystems, provides resources like food and medicine, and makes life on Earth vibrant.
Keynote Presentation Youth & BiodiversityGrace Mwaura
A keynote presentation at the Earth Day Youth Summit- 22nd April 2010 Celebrations in Nairobi by the African Youth Initiative on Climate Change- Kenya Chapter(AYICC-Kenya).
Sustainable utilization and conservation of plant biodiversity in montane eco...Shujaul Mulk Khan
Background Conservation of the unique biodiversity of mountain ecosystems needs trans-disciplinary approaches to succeed in a crowded colloquial world. Geographers, conservationists, ecologists and social scientists have, in the past, had the same conservation goals but have tended to work independently. In this review, the need to integrate different conservation criteria and methodologies is discussed. New criteria are offered for prioritizing species and habitats for conservation in montane ecosystems that combine both ecological and social data.
Scope Ecological attributes of plant species, analysed through robust community statistical packages, provide unbiased classifications of species assemblages and environmental biodiversity gradients and yield importance value indices (IVIs). Surveys of local communities’ utilization of the vegetation provides use values (UVs). This review suggests a new means of assessing anthropogenic pressure on plant biodiversity at both species and community levels by integrating IVI and UV data sets in a combined analysis.
Conclusions Mountain ecosystems are hot spots for plant conservation efforts because they hold a high overall plant diversity as communities replace each other along altitudinal and climatic gradients, including a high proportion of endemic species. This review contributes an enhanced understanding of (1) plant diversity in mountain ecosystems with special reference to the western Himalayas; (2) ethnobotanical and ecosystem service values of mountain vegetation within the context of anthropogenic impacts; and (3) local and regional plant conservation strategies and priorities.
Presentation on International Forest Day 2020 Md Najmus SakibMdNajmusSakib
Md. Najmus Sakib is the District Team Leader of Climate Finance Transparency Mechanism Project of COAST Trust. He presented the presentation on International Forest Day 2020 at the Department of Forest, Patuakhali.
Ecotourism is a part of environmental conservation, and understanding what the needs of the people are who are local to the area so that you can help to improve their quality of life. It also involves learning more about the history of other cities and preserving the historical landmarks.
Here in my research I need to identify the scope and development of ecotourism. And the management of ecotourism in both government and non-government organizations.
Research Objectives are thought to be as follows:-
1. To determine the volume of tourism in ecological areas and other areas in Bangladesh.
2. Find out the opportunities for developing ecotourism.
3. Identify the pros and cons of ecotourism on the local communities of Bangladesh.
Bangladesh is a gift of nature. This country is an attractive ecotourism destination in south Asia (Bhuiyanet al.2010). Its natural resources, ecological advantages and situated in an important geographical nerve point are great pleasure for developing ecotourism here. Bangladesh has a host of tourist treasurers to offer to tourists- beaches, lakes, rivers, hills, forests, wildlife, tribal life, archaeological remains, including historical monuments, folklore, religious and cultural heritage, handicrafts and much more. All these combinations are enormous ecotourism products. The country, having tourism potential, must be conscious in developing market. The country has its potential to differentiate its product for its uniqueness. Therefore, ecotourism industry of Bangladesh must arrange its different elements such a way that give its better satisfaction to the visitors of the world.
This article intents to draw the attention of the developing countries in Africa and Asia to pay attention to the preservation and conservation of the natural world/environment. It also identifies some of the reasons as to why it is not possible for some countries to join the campaign that calls for the friendly co-existence with nature.
This document discusses the importance of biodiversity conservation. It begins by defining biodiversity and noting its origins throughout geological history. Examples are given of how loss of biodiversity, such as through China's "Four Pests" campaign which targeted sparrows, can have disastrous consequences like widespread famine. Today, biodiversity loss increases the risk of zoonotic diseases transferring to humans. India is highlighted as one of the most biodiverse countries, yet also facing threats to many species. The document stresses that conservation efforts are needed to protect biodiversity for continued ecosystem services and human well-being.
Cool australia biodiversity 5&6 presentationCool Australia
This document discusses biodiversity and some of Earth's strange animal species. It defines biodiversity as the variety of living things on Earth, from microbes to polar bears. Humans are threatening biodiversity through activities like pollution, deforestation, introducing invasive species, and climate change. Conserving biodiversity is important because it maintains ecosystems, provides resources like food and medicine, and makes life on Earth vibrant.
Keynote Presentation Youth & BiodiversityGrace Mwaura
A keynote presentation at the Earth Day Youth Summit- 22nd April 2010 Celebrations in Nairobi by the African Youth Initiative on Climate Change- Kenya Chapter(AYICC-Kenya).
Sustainable utilization and conservation of plant biodiversity in montane eco...Shujaul Mulk Khan
Background Conservation of the unique biodiversity of mountain ecosystems needs trans-disciplinary approaches to succeed in a crowded colloquial world. Geographers, conservationists, ecologists and social scientists have, in the past, had the same conservation goals but have tended to work independently. In this review, the need to integrate different conservation criteria and methodologies is discussed. New criteria are offered for prioritizing species and habitats for conservation in montane ecosystems that combine both ecological and social data.
Scope Ecological attributes of plant species, analysed through robust community statistical packages, provide unbiased classifications of species assemblages and environmental biodiversity gradients and yield importance value indices (IVIs). Surveys of local communities’ utilization of the vegetation provides use values (UVs). This review suggests a new means of assessing anthropogenic pressure on plant biodiversity at both species and community levels by integrating IVI and UV data sets in a combined analysis.
Conclusions Mountain ecosystems are hot spots for plant conservation efforts because they hold a high overall plant diversity as communities replace each other along altitudinal and climatic gradients, including a high proportion of endemic species. This review contributes an enhanced understanding of (1) plant diversity in mountain ecosystems with special reference to the western Himalayas; (2) ethnobotanical and ecosystem service values of mountain vegetation within the context of anthropogenic impacts; and (3) local and regional plant conservation strategies and priorities.
This document discusses various topics related to sustaining wild species and preventing extinction. It describes three types of species extinction and characteristics of species prone to extinction. It also discusses factors contributing to habitat loss and degradation, the impacts of human activities and climate change on extinction rates, and approaches for protecting endangered species through international treaties, national laws, protected areas, and conservation programs.
The document summarizes Colombia's 9th Migratory Bird Festival being held in October 2012 across 4 regions of the country, featuring educational activities to generate awareness about migratory birds. Over 5,000 people are expected to participate in events like observational walks and a closing parade celebrating habitats for migratory birds during their tropical stay. The festival is organized by Fundacion ProAves to promote conservation by achieving behavioral changes and solidarity with biodiversity.
The Kurdistan Regional Government in Iraq planted 5 million trees across Iraq to celebrate Earth Day 2012 and A Billion Acts of Green. The Prime Minister said they hoped to improve the environment and set an example for sustainability in Iraq and the world. Over 10,000 people in New Taipei City, Taiwan also planted trees for Earth Day. An Earth Day celebration in Alaska featured mayors signing a sustainability proclamation.
This document discusses the potential for a new field of study called Coastal Anthropology in India. It provides background on the diverse human populations that inhabit coastal regions in India and how they have adapted to their environments. The field would take a comprehensive, interdisciplinary approach to understand the health, biological, cultural and social aspects of coastal populations. It identifies several key areas for future research, such as comparing adaptations across different ecological zones, analyzing vulnerability to climate change and urbanization, and assessing relationships between coastal communities and their environments. The field has implications for informing local and national policy regarding sustainable development and resource allocation for coastal populations.
Govind major events of environmental daysGovind Baabu
The document lists 13 environmental days observed throughout the year to raise awareness about important environmental issues such as wetlands, forests, water, biodiversity, climate change, and wildlife conservation. Some of the major events included are Earth Day (April 22nd), World Environment Day (June 5th), World Water Day (March 22nd), and World Wildlife Week (October 2nd-8th). The document provides the origins and themes for many of these environmental days in 2018.
The 32nd Annual EcoFarm Conference brought together farmers, scientists, activists, and entrepreneurs interested in more sustainable food systems. Over the course of sessions, topics included organic farming techniques, climate-friendly agriculture, farmer training programs, and building relationships between farmers and chefs. Attendees learned about innovative approaches like using cover crops, biochar, and edible landscaping to advance ecological and economic resilience in agriculture.
Mawlynnong asia’s cleanest village; a model rural eco tourism (A Paradise Eco...Kumar Deepak
Destination to the Asia’s cleanest village, the Mawlynnong is not about my journey as a normal routine traveler but I was trying to explore out the relationship between human & environment as a paradigm shift from a Remote Rural Habitation to an advance eco-tourism heaven of the continent by evolving a dynamic rural entrepreneurship mindset to extract the key natural resources as a livelihood ingredient & the prevailing ecosystem & its biodiversity as an economic wheel to prosperity.
The Kurdistan Regional Government in Iraq planted 5 million trees across Iraq on Earth Day 2012 to help the environment and set an example for sustainability. Over 10,000 people in New Taipei City, Taiwan also planted trees for Earth Day. Students and villagers in India's Kanha National Park rallied to protect the Earth, planting trees and cleaning up trash. These are some examples of activities that took place globally on Earth Day 2012 to raise environmental awareness and mobilize action.
Dear Reader,
NewsLeTERRE brings to you another cool breeze of freshness in this vexing summer. This time, the coolth comes to from:
1. Chairman's message: "Giving back- this time to our soil"
2. Celebration of most important day to us: "TERRE team celebrated THE WORLD EARTH DAY"
3. Newest quest of ours: "Sahyadri Forts with Their Outstanding Universal Values Could be in UNESCO World Natural Heritage Sites"
4. Rendezvous with Mr. Anil Khaire: "Urban wildlife"
5. 45 cities in 45 days: "The Earth Day Network"
6. Launch of e-journal on Climate and Sustainable energy.
7. Building on success of the Montreal Protocol -TERRE and IGSD at Bangkok's UNO office.
Agriculture has been the backbone of India for 7,000 years, made possible by fertile land, rivers, and annual monsoons. Water is the basis of agriculture, and ancient and medieval India could irrigate three crops per year, yielding more than today. India receives the second highest rainfall globally in proportion to its landmass. Sanskrit has over 100 words for water, showing its importance. Across India's varied landscapes, indigenous systems like tanks and ponds have harnessed water for prosperity through history. However, water is a finite resource, with only 2% of Earth's water fresh and available, challenging sustainability as population grows.
Endangered species are at risk of extinction due to threats like habitat loss, hunting, and climate change. Conservation aims to protect biodiversity by preserving habitats, restoring degraded areas, and protecting species. Some common conservation actions include habitat preservation, restoration, captive breeding programs, anti-poaching measures, and wildlife corridors. Individuals can help endangered species by reducing their environmental impact, supporting conservation organizations, and volunteering.
- 15 plant and 8 animal species supply 90% of global food, with wheat, rice, and corn providing half of all calories. 66% of people rely mainly on these grains.
- There are two main types of food production: industrialized agriculture which uses large amounts of chemicals and fossil fuels to grow monocultures, and traditional agriculture which is still practiced by most people globally.
- Population growth, degradation of cropland, and declining resources are exacerbating global food problems, though food production has doubled since 1940 and global undernutrition has decreased significantly in recent decades.
Ecotourism involves environmentally and socially responsible tourism that benefits local environments and communities economically. It focuses on small scale and low impact activities like trekking that expose visitors to natural areas in a way that conserves resources and respects local cultures. Done properly, ecotourism can contribute to sustainable development by improving living standards for local people through jobs and infrastructure while protecting environments for future generations.
This document discusses different types of resources and land use in India. It defines resources as anything available in the environment that can satisfy human needs if technologically accessible, economically feasible, and culturally acceptable. Resources are classified based on origin (biotic vs abiotic), exhaustibility (renewable vs non-renewable), ownership, and development status. Land resources in India consist of plains (30%), plateaus (27%), and mountains (43%). General land use in India has shifted from 1960-61 to 2002-03 with decreases in forest land and increases in net sown area. Various human activities like deforestation and mining have contributed to land degradation issues in India such as wastelands. Soil is an important
Connection among Water, Agriculture, and Human Rights, and Its Concerns in Ba...CrimsonPublishersAAOA
The Ganges Basin communities in Bangladesh are entirely dependent on the Ganges River flow for their agricultural production; river flows determine whether most people will have access to employment, food, education, housing, and health care. For the vast majority of people in this region, this production includes the ability to match cropping strategies effectively to river water flows during both rainy and summer seasons, to utilize a variety of common property resources, such as fisheries, and to augment subsistence food production with some shareholder activities, and agricultural employment. However, this pattern of agricultural production is increasingly undermined by government driven processes of water and agricultural development, many of which, now, follow explicitly neoliberal economic agendas.
For more open access journals in Crimson Publishers please click on link: https://crimsonpublishers.com/
For more articles in open access Archaeology journals please click on link: https://crimsonpublishers.com/aaoa/
Technical aspects of improving acceptance of nuclear power insac 2012anil_kakodkar
This document discusses technical aspects of improving public acceptance of nuclear power by addressing the "catastrophe syndrome" caused by events like Chernobyl and Fukushima. It notes that public trust has been damaged by perceived consequences of nuclear accidents. To regain acceptance, it advocates a comprehensive safety approach including reassessing design basis assumptions, severe accident response, emergency management capabilities, and safety culture. It also discusses establishing dual-level design criteria to ensure plants can cope with extreme events without significant off-site impacts. Overall, the document analyzes factors influencing public views of nuclear power and proposes strategies to minimize perceived risks and consequences of nuclear accidents.
Reflective teaching involves self-evaluation and feedback from colleagues to improve one's teaching. A reflective teacher questions their teaching aims and methods to ensure they are clear and effective for helping students learn. Reflective practice is important for teachers to develop their skills and address challenges in a thoughtful way.
Vikram Sarabhai was an Indian scientist who made significant contributions to India's space program and industrialization. He founded the Physical Research Laboratory in Ahmedabad in 1947 at the age of 28. Sarabhai married Mrinalini Sarabhai in 1942 and had two children. He passed away in 1971 in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala due to health issues from an immense workload. Sarabhai played a pivotal role in establishing India's space program and convincing the government of its importance for national development.
This document discusses various topics related to sustaining wild species and preventing extinction. It describes three types of species extinction and characteristics of species prone to extinction. It also discusses factors contributing to habitat loss and degradation, the impacts of human activities and climate change on extinction rates, and approaches for protecting endangered species through international treaties, national laws, protected areas, and conservation programs.
The document summarizes Colombia's 9th Migratory Bird Festival being held in October 2012 across 4 regions of the country, featuring educational activities to generate awareness about migratory birds. Over 5,000 people are expected to participate in events like observational walks and a closing parade celebrating habitats for migratory birds during their tropical stay. The festival is organized by Fundacion ProAves to promote conservation by achieving behavioral changes and solidarity with biodiversity.
The Kurdistan Regional Government in Iraq planted 5 million trees across Iraq to celebrate Earth Day 2012 and A Billion Acts of Green. The Prime Minister said they hoped to improve the environment and set an example for sustainability in Iraq and the world. Over 10,000 people in New Taipei City, Taiwan also planted trees for Earth Day. An Earth Day celebration in Alaska featured mayors signing a sustainability proclamation.
This document discusses the potential for a new field of study called Coastal Anthropology in India. It provides background on the diverse human populations that inhabit coastal regions in India and how they have adapted to their environments. The field would take a comprehensive, interdisciplinary approach to understand the health, biological, cultural and social aspects of coastal populations. It identifies several key areas for future research, such as comparing adaptations across different ecological zones, analyzing vulnerability to climate change and urbanization, and assessing relationships between coastal communities and their environments. The field has implications for informing local and national policy regarding sustainable development and resource allocation for coastal populations.
Govind major events of environmental daysGovind Baabu
The document lists 13 environmental days observed throughout the year to raise awareness about important environmental issues such as wetlands, forests, water, biodiversity, climate change, and wildlife conservation. Some of the major events included are Earth Day (April 22nd), World Environment Day (June 5th), World Water Day (March 22nd), and World Wildlife Week (October 2nd-8th). The document provides the origins and themes for many of these environmental days in 2018.
The 32nd Annual EcoFarm Conference brought together farmers, scientists, activists, and entrepreneurs interested in more sustainable food systems. Over the course of sessions, topics included organic farming techniques, climate-friendly agriculture, farmer training programs, and building relationships between farmers and chefs. Attendees learned about innovative approaches like using cover crops, biochar, and edible landscaping to advance ecological and economic resilience in agriculture.
Mawlynnong asia’s cleanest village; a model rural eco tourism (A Paradise Eco...Kumar Deepak
Destination to the Asia’s cleanest village, the Mawlynnong is not about my journey as a normal routine traveler but I was trying to explore out the relationship between human & environment as a paradigm shift from a Remote Rural Habitation to an advance eco-tourism heaven of the continent by evolving a dynamic rural entrepreneurship mindset to extract the key natural resources as a livelihood ingredient & the prevailing ecosystem & its biodiversity as an economic wheel to prosperity.
The Kurdistan Regional Government in Iraq planted 5 million trees across Iraq on Earth Day 2012 to help the environment and set an example for sustainability. Over 10,000 people in New Taipei City, Taiwan also planted trees for Earth Day. Students and villagers in India's Kanha National Park rallied to protect the Earth, planting trees and cleaning up trash. These are some examples of activities that took place globally on Earth Day 2012 to raise environmental awareness and mobilize action.
Dear Reader,
NewsLeTERRE brings to you another cool breeze of freshness in this vexing summer. This time, the coolth comes to from:
1. Chairman's message: "Giving back- this time to our soil"
2. Celebration of most important day to us: "TERRE team celebrated THE WORLD EARTH DAY"
3. Newest quest of ours: "Sahyadri Forts with Their Outstanding Universal Values Could be in UNESCO World Natural Heritage Sites"
4. Rendezvous with Mr. Anil Khaire: "Urban wildlife"
5. 45 cities in 45 days: "The Earth Day Network"
6. Launch of e-journal on Climate and Sustainable energy.
7. Building on success of the Montreal Protocol -TERRE and IGSD at Bangkok's UNO office.
Agriculture has been the backbone of India for 7,000 years, made possible by fertile land, rivers, and annual monsoons. Water is the basis of agriculture, and ancient and medieval India could irrigate three crops per year, yielding more than today. India receives the second highest rainfall globally in proportion to its landmass. Sanskrit has over 100 words for water, showing its importance. Across India's varied landscapes, indigenous systems like tanks and ponds have harnessed water for prosperity through history. However, water is a finite resource, with only 2% of Earth's water fresh and available, challenging sustainability as population grows.
Endangered species are at risk of extinction due to threats like habitat loss, hunting, and climate change. Conservation aims to protect biodiversity by preserving habitats, restoring degraded areas, and protecting species. Some common conservation actions include habitat preservation, restoration, captive breeding programs, anti-poaching measures, and wildlife corridors. Individuals can help endangered species by reducing their environmental impact, supporting conservation organizations, and volunteering.
- 15 plant and 8 animal species supply 90% of global food, with wheat, rice, and corn providing half of all calories. 66% of people rely mainly on these grains.
- There are two main types of food production: industrialized agriculture which uses large amounts of chemicals and fossil fuels to grow monocultures, and traditional agriculture which is still practiced by most people globally.
- Population growth, degradation of cropland, and declining resources are exacerbating global food problems, though food production has doubled since 1940 and global undernutrition has decreased significantly in recent decades.
Ecotourism involves environmentally and socially responsible tourism that benefits local environments and communities economically. It focuses on small scale and low impact activities like trekking that expose visitors to natural areas in a way that conserves resources and respects local cultures. Done properly, ecotourism can contribute to sustainable development by improving living standards for local people through jobs and infrastructure while protecting environments for future generations.
This document discusses different types of resources and land use in India. It defines resources as anything available in the environment that can satisfy human needs if technologically accessible, economically feasible, and culturally acceptable. Resources are classified based on origin (biotic vs abiotic), exhaustibility (renewable vs non-renewable), ownership, and development status. Land resources in India consist of plains (30%), plateaus (27%), and mountains (43%). General land use in India has shifted from 1960-61 to 2002-03 with decreases in forest land and increases in net sown area. Various human activities like deforestation and mining have contributed to land degradation issues in India such as wastelands. Soil is an important
Connection among Water, Agriculture, and Human Rights, and Its Concerns in Ba...CrimsonPublishersAAOA
The Ganges Basin communities in Bangladesh are entirely dependent on the Ganges River flow for their agricultural production; river flows determine whether most people will have access to employment, food, education, housing, and health care. For the vast majority of people in this region, this production includes the ability to match cropping strategies effectively to river water flows during both rainy and summer seasons, to utilize a variety of common property resources, such as fisheries, and to augment subsistence food production with some shareholder activities, and agricultural employment. However, this pattern of agricultural production is increasingly undermined by government driven processes of water and agricultural development, many of which, now, follow explicitly neoliberal economic agendas.
For more open access journals in Crimson Publishers please click on link: https://crimsonpublishers.com/
For more articles in open access Archaeology journals please click on link: https://crimsonpublishers.com/aaoa/
Technical aspects of improving acceptance of nuclear power insac 2012anil_kakodkar
This document discusses technical aspects of improving public acceptance of nuclear power by addressing the "catastrophe syndrome" caused by events like Chernobyl and Fukushima. It notes that public trust has been damaged by perceived consequences of nuclear accidents. To regain acceptance, it advocates a comprehensive safety approach including reassessing design basis assumptions, severe accident response, emergency management capabilities, and safety culture. It also discusses establishing dual-level design criteria to ensure plants can cope with extreme events without significant off-site impacts. Overall, the document analyzes factors influencing public views of nuclear power and proposes strategies to minimize perceived risks and consequences of nuclear accidents.
Reflective teaching involves self-evaluation and feedback from colleagues to improve one's teaching. A reflective teacher questions their teaching aims and methods to ensure they are clear and effective for helping students learn. Reflective practice is important for teachers to develop their skills and address challenges in a thoughtful way.
Vikram Sarabhai was an Indian scientist who made significant contributions to India's space program and industrialization. He founded the Physical Research Laboratory in Ahmedabad in 1947 at the age of 28. Sarabhai married Mrinalini Sarabhai in 1942 and had two children. He passed away in 1971 in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala due to health issues from an immense workload. Sarabhai played a pivotal role in establishing India's space program and convincing the government of its importance for national development.
The document discusses the importance of technology in empowering citizens and nations, and ensuring strategic autonomy and security. It argues that India needs robust technological solutions that address disparities and ensure food, energy, and material security through accessible education, resilient infrastructure, and demand-driven research. It outlines key areas for technological development, including education, healthcare, agriculture, water, energy, transportation and more. The document proposes various initiatives to make India's R&D more productive and industry-engaged, such as science centers, industry internships, research parks, and smoothing barriers for industry-academia partnerships.
1. Securing India's energy future is a major challenge as India will need around 40% of present global electricity generation added to reach an average of 5000 kWh per capita electricity consumption.
2. India has limited domestic energy resources. Coal could last around 11.5 years, uranium between 0.36 to 18.5 years depending on fuel cycle, while thorium resources could last over 170 years at 5000 kWh per capita.
3. A three stage nuclear power program is proposed, starting with PHWR and LWR reactors, then fast breeder reactors, and eventually moving to thorium-based reactors to sustain long-term energy needs while reducing proliferation risks and waste.
The document discusses enhancing the quality of primary education in India. It identifies several challenges facing primary education in India including lack of quality education, high student-teacher ratios, illiterate societies that do not value education, and gender disparities. It provides statistics on education access and outcomes in different Indian states. It discusses the importance of primary education for national development and outlines governmental efforts to improve access and infrastructure for primary schools across India.
The document summarizes India's solar power sector as of November 2012. It details India's total installed power capacity breakdown which includes 25,858 MW from renewable sources. Solar power capacity reached 1,044 MW, a growth from 3 MW in 2008-09. The Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission aims to achieve grid parity by 2022 and has set targets to install 20,000 MW of solar power by 2022. Phase 1 of the mission from 2010-2013 saw the installation of over 1,100 MW of grid solar power projects.
Transforming India Through Quality Higher Educationanil_kakodkar
The document discusses transforming India through quality higher education. It argues for student-centric education that provides skills, vocational training, and research opportunities to create entrepreneurs rather than just job seekers. Education should maximize domestic innovation and technology to add value within India. The ideal system encompasses learning, research, technology, innovation, entrepreneurship, and sensitivity to society/environment. It outlines reforms needed for world-class universities, including governance, funding, industry partnerships, and skill development.
Lowering threats in sustainable development using nuclear energy anil_kakodkar
The document discusses the need to expand nuclear energy in a sustainable way to meet growing energy demands while addressing climate change threats. It argues that thorium can play a greater role by providing a proliferation-resistant fuel cycle option for both thermal and fast reactors. The document highlights how the proposed AHWR300 reactor design fueled with LEU-thorium provides inherent safety, sustainability and security advantages over other fuel cycle options.
This document discusses the importance of bees and bee pollination for global food security. It notes that over 30% of global food crops depend on bee pollination and the total economic value of insect pollination is estimated at €153 billion annually. However, the global bee population is declining due to factors like intensive agriculture. The document calls for more recognition and promotion of bee conservation efforts like honey festivals in order to protect this crucial pollinator and food source for billions of people worldwide.
This document discusses natural resources and their classification. It defines natural resources as anything found in nature that can be used by people. Natural resources are divided into renewable and non-renewable categories. Renewable resources like air, water and forests can regenerate, while non-renewable resources like coal and minerals are limited. The document emphasizes the need for conservation and sustainable management of natural resources. It discusses various environmental issues caused by the over-exploitation of resources and ways to address them.
Biodiversity and its Conservation methodsNishat Fatima
The document provides information about biodiversity and its conservation. It defines biodiversity as the variety of life on Earth, including genetic diversity, species diversity, and ecosystem diversity. It notes that biodiversity is being lost due to factors like habitat destruction, overexploitation, pollution, invasive species, and climate change. The document then discusses approaches to conserving biodiversity, including both in-situ conservation methods like protected areas as well as ex-situ conservation methods like seed banks, gene banks, botanical gardens, and zoos. Overall, the document emphasizes the importance of biodiversity for human life and the need to balance development with conservation through sustainable practices and policies.
Biodiversity refers to the variety of living organisms on Earth. This document discusses biodiversity in India, including definitions, types of species, values of biodiversity, threats to biodiversity, and methods of conservation. It notes that there are an estimated 8 million species worldwide but only 1.4 million have been identified so far. Key threats include habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflicts. Conservation methods discussed include the creation of biosphere reserves, national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and ex-situ conservation programs like botanical gardens and zoos.
1. The document discusses biodiversity, which refers to the variety of life forms within an ecosystem. It notes that biodiversity exists at the genetic, species, and ecosystem levels.
2. It identifies several megabiodiversity countries and biodiversity hotspots, including the Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats in India.
3. Biodiversity is important for ecological, research, and economic reasons. It maintains ecosystems and supports the discovery of new products, while direct harvesting of plants and animals provides economic value. However, biodiversity is threatened by habitat destruction, killing of animals, invasive species, and pollution.
The document discusses different types of protected areas in India that conserve biodiversity - biosphere reserves, wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, and zoos. It provides background on India's biodiversity and lists threats like habitat loss. Biosphere reserves aim to conserve biodiversity and support sustainable development. Wildlife sanctuaries and national parks protect habitats and species. The document lists several biosphere reserves, wildlife sanctuaries, and national parks in Kerala. Zoos provide ex-situ conservation of endangered species.
Biological diversity
It is that part of nature which includes the differences in genes among the individuals of a species.
Biological diversity deals with the nature’s variety in the biosphere.
Biodiversity and its conservation. In situ conservation of biodiversity. Threats to biodiversity. Endangered and endemic species of India, germplasm conservation
Benefits of biodiversity includes direct, indirect consumptive use values, productive usevalues, social value, ethical and moral values, aesthetic value, option and environmental services, cultural and spiritual values are covered in this presentation.
BIODIVERSITY, its types, definition, advantages.pdfPrajaktaRahate2
This document discusses biodiversity, including its definition, types, benefits, threats, and status in India. It defines biodiversity as the variety of life forms on Earth and their interdependence. There are three main types of biodiversity: diversity of species, ecosystems, and genetics. Biodiversity provides many benefits like food, medicine, fuel, and ecosystem services. However, it faces threats from habitat loss, overexploitation, pollution, and climate change. India is home to remarkable biodiversity across its varied landscapes, from Western Ghats forests to Andaman reefs. The Yamuna Biodiversity Park in Delhi showcases the region's biodiversity and plays a key role in conservation. Overall biodiversity is essential for human
Wildlife conservation in India is important because India is home to a high percentage of the world's biodiversity. However, human activities like exploitation of land and forests have led to the extinction of many species. Conservation efforts aim to preserve threatened species and their habitats through protected areas like tiger reserves and by raising awareness of the importance of wildlife. Community involvement is key to promoting tolerance for wildlife and sustainable practices.
A ppt presentation on biodiversity and it's importance and how valuable the biodiversity is for us. It shows about how can a human save the biodiversity through it's sustainable use.
This document presents an overview of the value of biodiversity. It discusses several types of value: consumptive use value where local communities directly utilize species for needs like food and materials; productive use value where biotechnology and industry use genetic resources from biodiversity; social value where traditional societies preserved biodiversity as part of their livelihood and culture; ethical and moral values in protecting all life as most beliefs see all species as having a right to exist; aesthetic value in biodiversity's beauty and contribution to knowledge; and option value in keeping future possibilities open by preserving species and genetic diversity that may have future uses. The document emphasizes that biodiversity preservation is essential for environmental services, economic development, and humanity's long-term survival.
Biodiversity refers to the variety of life on Earth, including plants, animals and microorganisms. The document discusses biodiversity at the global, national and local levels. It also outlines several threats to biodiversity such as habitat destruction, pollution, invasive species, overexploitation, and poaching. Conservation efforts aim to protect biodiversity through both in-situ and ex-situ methods.
Biodiversity refers to the variety of life on Earth, including species, ecosystems, and genetic diversity. It is highest near the equator, especially in tropical rainforests and coral reefs. Biodiversity exists at the ecosystem, species, and genetic levels. There are an estimated 3-50 million species currently living, though only 1.4 million have been identified and named. Biodiversity is important for ecological functions like nutrient cycling, soil formation, and pollination that support human life. It also provides consumptive benefits like food and medicine, with many drugs derived from natural compounds. Loss of biodiversity could undermine ecosystem services and the life-sustaining benefits that people derive from nature.
Biodiversity of India Special Focus on Telangana & A.PKam Raju
Biodiversity, a portmanteau of "biological diversity," generally refers to the variety and variability of life on Earth.
According to the United Nations Environment Programmers, biodiversity typically measures variation at the genetic, the species, and the ecosystem level.
Terrestrial biodiversity tends to be greater near the equator, which seems to be the result of the warm climate and high primary productivity. Biodiversity is not distributed evenly on Earth, and is richest in the tropics.
World Forestry Day was established in 1971 by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization to raise awareness about the importance of forests. It is celebrated annually on March 21st. Forests are essential as they provide resources like wood, fiber, food and help regulate the climate. However, about 13 million hectares of forests are lost each year to deforestation. For World Forestry Day, events focus on educating people about forests and encouraging tree planting to help offset deforestation and climate change.
Biodiversity is the degree of variation of life. This can refer to genetic variation, species variation, or ecosystem variation. Biologists most often define biodiversity as the "totality of genes, species, and ecosystems of a region".
Biodiversity refers to the variety of life on Earth, including millions of species of plants, animals, and microorganisms. However, species are currently going extinct at an alarming rate of around 1,500 every two months. The total economic value of biodiversity includes both use values, such as products directly consumed by humans, and non-use values, including existence and bequest values. While direct use values are easier to measure, the full value of biodiversity, including important indirect ecological services, is difficult to quantify and often not reflected in economic measures.
This document discusses the various values of biodiversity. It begins by defining biodiversity as the variety of life on Earth, including different species, ecosystems, and genetic diversity. It then outlines several values of biodiversity, including consumptive use value through providing resources for food, materials, and medicines. Productive use value involves using genetic resources from biodiversity for scientific and economic purposes. Social value includes cultural and religious importance as well as supporting traditional livelihoods. Ethical and moral values recognize the right of all life forms to exist. Aesthetic value acknowledges biodiversity's beauty and role in culture. Option value refers to keeping future options open by preserving biodiversity for potential future uses that cannot be predicted.
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With the increasing urban population in Kenya, which is estimated to be growing at a rate higher than that of the country’s general population, waste generation and management is already a major challenge. The industrialization and urbanization process in the country, dominated by one major city – Nairobi, which has around four times the population of the next largest urban centre (Mombasa) – has witnessed an exponential increase in the generation of solid waste. It is projected that by 2030, about 50 per cent of the Kenyan population will be urban.
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Build awareness and capacity for source separation as essential components of sustainable waste management.
Build new environmentally sound infrastructure and systems for safe disposal of residual waste and replacing current dumpsites which should be commissioned.
Current solid waste management situation:
The status.
Solid waste generation rate is at 2240 tones / day
collection efficiently is at about 50%.
Actors i.e. city authorities, CBO’s , private firms and self-disposal
Current SWM Situation in Nairobi City:
Solid waste generation – collection – dumping
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• Separation – recycling – marketing.
• Open dumpsite dandora dump site through public education on source separation of waste, of which the situation can be reversed.
• Nairobi is one of the C40 cities in this respect , various actors in the solid waste management space have adopted a variety of technologies to reduce short lived climate pollutants including source separation , recycling , marketing of the recycled products.
• Through the network, it should expect to benefit from expertise of the different actors in the network in terms of applicable technologies and practices in reducing the short-lived climate pollutants.
Good practices:
Despite the dismal collection of solid waste in Nairobi city, there are practices and activities of informal actors (CBOs, CBO-SACCOs and yard shop operators) and other formal industrial actors on solid waste collection, recycling and waste reduction.
Practices and activities of these actor groups are viewed as innovations with the potential to change the way solid waste is handled.
CHALLENGES:
• Resource Allocation.
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1. FOREST FOODS AND
ECOLOGY FESTIVAL
December 12-14, 2014
New Delhi, India
A mind-boggling 1200 varieties of uncultivated forest foods were displayed at the ‘Forest
Foods and Ecology Festival’, Dec 12 to 14, 2014, in New Delhi. About 375 people participated,
including representatives of 23 forest dependent communities from 13 states. Beginning
with a day-long national conference on forest foods, the Festival hosted at Sri Aurobindo
Society was jointly organized by Living Farms, Kalpavriksh, SADED, Vividhara, Gandhi
Peace Foundation and others.
2. Overview of the Festival
Here are some engaging glimpses of the Forest Foods and Ecology Festival, which show-
cased over 1200 varieties of uncultivated/forest foods – natural, safe, nutritious and
free! – brought by adivasi and forest dependent communities from 13 states all over
India. A mind-boggling diversity of edible leaves, twigs, flowers, seeds, fruits, berries,
vegetables, roots and tubers, fungi (like mushrooms), resins, honey, fish, forest fowl,
(and what not!) … to celebrate India's rich and vibrant bio-cultural heritage of wild foods,
yet consumed by the indigenous forest people of our oldest surviving civilizations.
Displayed alongside the forest foods were several tribal crafts – hand-crafted bas-
ketry, multifunctional containers of all shapes and sizes, mats, even musical instru-
ments – all made out of forest bamboo, reed and grasses!
The exhibition area – in the peacefully convivial garden grove environs of Sri
Aurobindo Society, ND – was beautifully designed, using natural materials – bamboo,
jute, cotton fabrics and coconut coir ropes… a rustic, ethnic and ‘foresty’ feel… animated
with a free people’s energy, … laughter, chatter, song and music wafting in the air. All in
all, quite enchanting!
The Forest Foods Festival & Exhibition
2
3. Discussion Meetings of Forest Communities
Three open discussion circles focused on: (1) traditional adivasi culture and ethos, (2)
the nutritional value of forest foods, and (3) present challenges and struggles of native
communities across the country. Deep concern was expressed about: their disappearing
culture; the harmful effects of an alien education and consumerist-economic system on
the youth; growing restrictions on free access to forests; the spread of mono-cultural
commercial plantations and chemical agriculture promoted by government bodies and
external commercial interests; the forced displacement and fragmentation of forest
communities; the violence affecting their lives; and the ineffective or oppressive legal
framework that should ideally protect their rights. Many such passionate, concerned
voices rang out, pledging to defend their forest and their self-reliant, ecologically
sustainable culture.
3
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKjqp8Kpif-ortkxlxji-rg
They may also be viewed by looking up
YouTube Channel - 'Forest Foods Festival'
Video footages from the festival are available for viewing here
4. Poster Presentations at the Festival
Shalini Bhutani, Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Lawyer, presented a poster explaining
where and how wild forest foods and their conservation fit into our present legal and
administrative framework, which largely ignores them, or looks down upon them. The
Government’s food, agriculture and forest policies and programmes abjectly fail to
recognize the vital importance of uncultivated foods in the lives of the forest dependent
communities.
Several colourful nutrition charts showed how forest foods provide a well-balanced diet
with a healthy mix of energy-rich food, protein-rich food and protective food for different
seasons. Viewers learnt about wild foods rich in iron, calcium and folic acid – to keep
anemia at bay – and other uncultivated foods high in Vitamin A, Beta-Carotine and Vitamin C
– to ward off other illnesses. Many forest foods are also very rich in much needed
anti-oxidants; also fibre.
4
5. Fruits
A mind-boggling array of wild uncultivated forest fruits displayed at the Festival. Wild
berries, fruits, edible flowers - eaten straight off the plant/ tree, or consumed in a variety
of ways - dried, juiced, fermented, preserved.
5
6. Indigenous Grains, Legumes, Oilseeds
Many forest dependent communities traditionally grow a number of native food crops –
commonly 40-50 varieties – in or near forests. These include various grains, millets,
legumes, oilseeds, vegetables, etc. that provide the people a wholesome, balanced,
toxin-free diet. No chemicals, external inputs or groundwater are used.
6
7. 7
Introduction
From the womb of Aranya, Mother Forest, was born the most amazingly rich
diversity of life forms – suffused with vibrance soaked from the sun! Bounteous
Aranya provided all that was needed for their sustenance.
In this forest cradle, grew the ancient civilizations of the Adivasis, the original
human inhabitants of the land. Their communities lived in harmony with Nature
as close-knit kutumbas, or families. The forest, revered as ‘Mother’, is still integral
to the very identity of these indigenous peoples, inseparably linked with an umbilical
cord – a deep biological, emotional, cultural and spiritual relationship, based on
caring and sharing.
For many millennia, until agriculture began – barely 10,000 years ago – the forests
met every need. Agriculture too was nourished by the generous gifts of the forest.
We tragically forget that the forests regenerate our life-sustaining environment,
essential for the well-being of all on earth. They efficiently harvest the sun’s
energy, sequester carbon, produce biomass, create fertile topsoil and guard
against its erosion. They moderate the climate, mitigate global warming, provide
oxygen, bring rain, recharge groundwater, replenish and cleanse our rivers and
water bodies, buffer against floods, and provide habitats for rich biodiversity.
They also provide the forest dwelling people many wholesome foods and a huge
variety of other useful produce – all decentralized and well-distributed gifts of
Mother Nature. The parasitical modern industrial economy cannot provide these
essential needs, even at enormous cost.
In February, 2014, a unique ‘Tribal Foods Festival’ was held near Bissam Cuttack
– in the Niyamgiri foothills of south-western Odisha – with the support of Living
Farms, a non-governmental organization working with Adivasi and other forest
dependent communities to further strengthen the local food systems and
conserve the ecology of the area. Over 600 adivasis, about 80% women, gathered
from almost 200 tribal villages of different states in eastern and central India – to
celebrate the rich diversity of their traditional foods. More than 1500 food varieties
– cultivated and uncultivated, raw and cooked – were on display. Over 900 of
these were uncultivated forest foods, including 400 ready-to-eat recipes for sampling.
The following day, the festivity and celebration settled into a more solemn reflective
mood. A hundred or so representatives, who had stayed back, deliberated the many
The Bountiful Gifts of Mother Forest
A Tale of Forest Foods, Cultures, Communities and Ecology
8. 8
challenges and assaults, internal and external, that their adivasi kutumb faced.
But the resolve to protect their Mother Forest was unshakeable. This was not the
first time they had met; nor the last.
Nine months later, from December 12 to 14, a ‘Forest Foods and Ecology Festival’
was held at Sri Aurobindo Society, New Delhi. It saw the participation of more
than 375 people, representing 23 forest dependent communities gathered from
13 states of India. They brought with them for display over 1200 varieties of
forest foods and/or related photo documentation. Organised collaboratively by
Living Farms, Kalpavriksh, SADED, Vividhara, Gandhi Peace Foundation and
others, the event began with a whole day national conference on Forest Foods. This
spilled over on the 12th evening into the green open spaces outside the auditorium
– the festive Exhibition arena – and continued over the next two days.
The national conference, targeting policy makers, opinion makers and general
citizens, aimed to highlight the importance of uncultivated forest foods – and the
ethos and worldviews linked to these – for a large population of this land. Stress-
ing the urgent need to protect the ecological and bio-cultural habitats of forest
foods as part of our food and agriculture policy, it offered a convivial space for
dialogue between the representatives of the community, academicians, public
health scientists. and those of the government. It thus hoped to initiate a policy
discourse around food and nutrition security, and the sovereignty of Adivasi and
other forest dwelling/dependent communities.
The secretary of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs attended the national conference,
while Smt Maneka Gandhi, Minister of Women and Child Welfare, inaugurated the
‘Forest Foods and Ecology Festival’, and interacted with the participants at the
numerous stalls with their fascinating displays.
DAY 1
The inaugural of the conference was marked by the release of the book, ‘Forests as
Food Producing Habitats’ written by Dr. Debal Deb, Ms. Kavitha Kuruganti, Dr. V
Rukmini Rao, and Ms. Salome Yesudas, and published by Living Farms.
Speaking on ‘Food Security’, Dr Deb, well-known ecologist and scholar, highlighted
the conspicuous absence of uncultivated food in the National Food Policy. Empha-
sizing the role and importance of uncultivated food, he exhorted us to remember
our not so distant past, when as hunter gatherers, before the advent of cultivation, we
depended on the forest and wilderness for sourcing our food. Such uncultivated
foods have again become very important for our food security.
Dr Deb pointed out that there was no quantitative study till date revealing how
9. 9
much of the food consumed by forest communities was uncultivated. The present
investigation was a concerted effort to fill this yawning gap. He highlighted some
salient aspects and findings from their study, with 34% household sampling, in 6
villages of 2 tribal districts of Odisha, Rayagada and Sundargarh.
It was found that in bio-diverse forest regions, no one goes hungry. Between July
and December 2103, the quantification study period, there were a total of 121
varieties of wild foods harvested by the local households, averaging by weight
4.56 kg per collection foray. These constitute between 12% and 24.5% of the total
food consumption. However, if one considers too the foods like fruit and berries
that are consumed raw in the forest itself, the percentage of uncultivated food
consumption would be significantly higher. Several forest foods like mushroom,
tubers, honey, also provide cash income through sale.
The second presentation by Ms. Salome Yesudas, a nutritionist, looked at forest
foods as an abundant source of nourishment that can help provide nutritional
security. Listing the many merits of uncultivated forest foods, she said that they
were: (i) available round the year, even in peak summer or early rains, when the
stock of cultivated crops of the previous season is exhausted; (ii) easily and equi-
tably accessible to forest dwellers; (iii) varied, enabling balanced nutrition, (iv)
free or low-cost, (v) safe (free from natural or human contamination/adultera-
tion), and (vi) packed with micro nutrients, besides being rich in much needed
antioxidants and dietary fibre, particularly good for diabetic people. (vii) Such
uncultivated foods were also a vital safety net against the increasing trend of crop
failures caused by climate change, erratic rainfall, and mounting ecological
degradation, including groundwater scarcity, dead/depleted soils, and decimated
biodiversity.
Speaking on the legal and policy aspects related to forests and forest communi-
ties, Shalini Bhutani pointed out that the traditional knowledge of forests and
forest foods was vastly older than the Indian Constitution itself. The Government
of India lists most of these forest dwelling/dependent communities as ‘tribes’,
using the word as an essentially administrative term. In the policies and plans of
the government, these indigenous people are implicitly (and sometimes explicitly)
seen as uncultivated, and hence, backward. There is little or no recognition of
their ecologically symbiotic (and knowledge rich) ancient civilization, culture and
way of living that alone can protect and regenerate our forests.
Under the Government of India order of 1950, said Ms. Bhutani, there are 705
Scheduled Tribes that are notified. “So there are 102.2 million people recognized
as dependent on the forest.”
“Today, we need to have a fresh look at forests in an alternative way, and to recognize
their immense value, apart from the timber and wood they contain. We also need
to challenge the kind of institutional and administrative structure and policies
for centralizing the control of forests and forest resources for commercial extraction,
10. 10
without any thought for social justice or ecological sustainability.”
Ms. Bhutani added that today, the administrative structure assigns food and food
security to one ministry, and the management of forests to another. There needs
to be greater coordination and synergy between them when looking at the overlap-
ping area of uncultivated forest foods as a vital aspect of food security and sover-
eignty. The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations, sup-
ports the protection of forest foods. The Union Ministry of Women and Child Wel-
fare too must look at the well-being of over 100 million people who depend on
such uncultivated foods.
Dr. Amita Baviskar spoke of her experiences while working in the Narmada
region. She said that the reason people have fought with such intensity, despite
their vulnerabilities, is because they relate so closely to their land. Their lives
revolve around Narmada - the hills and the jungles of Narmada. It is not just
about their survival but also about their identity. But now, in Narmada, the jungles
have come down. With a new food dependence on Government Ration shops, and
easy accessibility of wheat, rice and packaged food, people have been forced to
move away from their own diverse traditional foods. There is, said Dr Baveskar,
an urgent need to re-popularize our rich old culture of food, especially amongst
the youth, before it is completely lost. This would impel farmers to again grow
their unique traditional varieties of crops. (If the traditional seeds are lost, the old
culture of food dies.)
However, in the case of uncultivated foods, concerns were raised that if these are
popularized, they might be “captured” by the corporate for external commercial
exploitation, thus becoming unavailable to the adivasis.
Sharings by the Community people
Jagannath Majhi, a Kondh Adivasi said, “I was introduced to the jungle by my parents
since I was a child. The way we understand and relate to the forest, none else
could. She is a second mother for us. We call her mother not just because she
gives us food, but because every aspect of our life is linked with the forests. A
mother protects her children; and this is how we feel – safe in our forests. These
define our very identity, and are inseparable from us!”
Arkhit Sawa related, “Seeing Delhi for the first time, the rush of cars makes us
nauseous. The food too is very different. We are used to our mountain foods, and
eat many kinds of uncultivated food found in our forests. These satiate us and
give us health. We have a relationship with every tree in our forest, and they pro-
vide us generously. The Mahua tree, for example, has many uses. Its leaves provide
fodder. The flowers are used to make jaggery, liquor or porridge. The fruits can
be cooked and consumed as a vegetable. The seed is crushed to yield a cooking-oil,
and the residual cake after extracting the oil is a valuable manure for farm crops.
11. 11
When the Mahua tree dies, its wood is used for making bullock carts, musical
instruments, agricultural implements, and for building our houses.
“… We are very concerned about our forests, and will fight if someone comes to
harm her. We will even give our lives to protect our Mother Forest,” declared
Sawa.
A woman from Nagaland: “We have rich bio-diversity. Uncultivated forest food is
closely linked to our livelihood, culture and identity. It forms a major part of our
diet. Several uncultivated forest herbs have medicinal values.”
The day-long national conference concluded with the screening of the film, ‘Candles in
the Wind’, by Nandan Saxena and Kavitha Behl. This movie is about farmers’ suicide
in Punjab which presented the plight of the widows of these small farmers, who are
left to bear their debt and the responsibility of the family as well as the chemically
abused-fields. The movie portrayed the struggle for survival of these brave farm
widows. An abridged version (10 minutes) of 'I cannot give you my Forest', another
movie by the same filmmakers on the forest foods and cultures of the native peoples
of the Niyamgiri region of Odisha, was also screened in between the presentations
during the day.
DAY 2
The second day featured several parallel discussions led by the community repre-
sentatives, all the participants sitting at the same level in a circle on the ground.
Everyone who wanted to speak got a chance. The 3 main themes (discussed in
separate circles) were: (1) the traditional ethos and culture of forest dependent
communities; (2) the contemporary challenges faced by forest communities, and
(3) the nutritional value of forest foods. The sharing in these discussions was
multi-lingual, with Hindi serving as a common bridge language.
The following is a sampling of the different voices heard:
“In India, jungles are seen as sacred places, like Nature’s own Gurukuls, suitable
for meditation and spiritual pursuits. We cannot allow them to be desecrated and
destroyed now in the worship of the new money god!”
“While they blame adivasis, it is the government and big industries that are cutting
down the forests in the name of development. Such destruction started under
British rule with the initiation of the Railway project. We adivasis rely on forests
only for our daily sustenance, not for hoarding or profiteering. We know that our
children too will need the forest, and therefore take care to use it judiciously and
sustainably. It is the outsiders, commercial dealers, in connivance with the forest
department staff, who come in big trucks to carry away huge amounts of wood.”
“There is a need to change the perspective of urban people about the tribals. The
12. Forest Foods Festival is a positive step in this direction.”
“The knowledge that adivasis possess about their jungles and nature, is profound.
The botanists used this knowledge, which they took from the adivasis, without
giving them due acknowledgement and credit.”
Maina and Ambibai from Vanvadi in the Sahyadri foothills of Maharashtra, relat-
ed: “We used to get lots of vegetables from the jungles around our area. The
forest foods provided us health and strength. But city developers have totally
wiped out the jungles surrounding Vanvadi and Chinchwadi. They not only cut
the trees, but dug them out by the roots, loosening the soil and flattening the hilly
lands with their JCBs. Huge quantities of eroded soil now run off each monsoon
to silt up our streams and reservoirs. You all, who love the earth, we need to
struggle, resist and stop this madness. It is only in unity that we will have the
strength to win.”
A young adivasi woman from Raygada District of Odisha expressed, “As a
mother, I worry about my kids because outside people are coming and destroying
the forest. Now the women in our area are working together to resist this destruction.
We are also replanting trees where they have been cut down.”
The issue of animals like elephants venturing into the areas of these community
people was another matter of concern. “Because their habitats in surrounding
areas have been destroyed, they have now started coming in large herds in our
area, and have become a serious menace.”
Savita, from the coastal belt of Uttar Kannada, related that the adivasi communities
in her area are beginning to lose their traditional knowledge. For example, they
used to make lovely mats from local grasses. But now, many of them are buying
plastic mats that are easily available and cheap. The traditional mats they made
required a lot of effort. The younger generation too is not interested in the traditional
crafts, especially those that face a struggling market in competition with cheap
machine-made products.
Vishala from Bangalore said, “The traditional knowledge of using local medicinal
plants is also getting lost as more people now depend upon allopathic doctors
and factory produced medicines coming from outside.”
“The self reliance of the adivasis is getting lost. They offered a worship and prayer
before a community hunting expedition. All customary rituals, social and reli-
gious, were performed by the adivasis themselves. But now, they call priests for
such occasions.”
“The sarkari Public Distribution System (PDS) is providing low quality cheap rice,
lacking in nutrition. Our forest foods and traditional varieties of grains, like millets,
high in nutritional value, are thus getting substituted by the inferior PDS grains.”
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14. Concluding Session (Day 3)
This featured a discussion on the draft declaration/appeal of the Festival, which
was finalized as presented below:
Forest Foods and Ecology
An appeal for empathy and wise governance - to protect our natural heritage,
culture, and collective future
We, from numerous Adivasi and forest-dependent communities in India, along
with people from different streams of society, gathered at the “Forest Foods &
Ecology” Festival, December 12 to 14, 2014 at Sri Aurobindo Society, New Delhi.
About 1200 varieties of forest/uncultivated foods from various parts of the
country were displayed, sharing our rich heritage of Nature’s gifts.
The forests run deep in our life-blood; and we feel anguish seeing the grave
threats they face. As an outcome of our joint discussions, we – forest-dependent
communities, supported by others – declare:
1. The natural forests are a nurturing mother to us. Our very identities, cultures
and world-views are closely linked to the forests that provide our primary
needs.
2. Our forests and other common lands bless us with many invaluable gifts –
abundant, diverse, nutritious foods, medicinal plants, and numerous other
useful products – vital to our daily life and livelihoods for generations beyond
count, particularly in times of scarcity, like droughts.
3. Our rich traditional knowledge and understanding of our bio-diverse forests,
evolved over millennia, is passed on from generation to generation, along with
a spirit of respect and gratitude. Our cultures discourage greed, the root of scar-
city, harm and sorrow.
4. The natural forests regenerate our life-sustaining environment, essential for
the well-being of all on earth. They harvest the sun’s energy, produce biomass,
create fertile topsoil and guard against its erosion. They moderate the climate,
mitigate global warming, provide oxygen, bring rain, recharge groundwater,
buffer against floods, and provide habitats for rich biodiversity.
5. Any attempt to cut down the forests, threatens grave environmental damage.
It also violates our fundamental right to life and livelihood. We pledge to do our
utmost to safeguard our forests and the rich life it harbours – for the well-being
and joy of all!
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15. 6. The sarkari laws and their implementation – to safeguard our community
forest rights, life cultures and livelihoods – need further strengthening, not
weakening, so that Mother Forest continues to remain healthy to nurture us
and future generations.
7. We cannot understand how anyone can claim to possess any kind of proprietary
right, including ‘Intellectual Property Right’ (IPR), over any part of our ancient
wealth or traditional knowledge, violating our ethos and our age-old collective
rights. This is neither reasonable nor acceptable.
8. Today’s education system ignores our cultures and local natural resources,
alienating the young from our former healthy and ecologically-sustainable life-
styles. This needs to change urgently.
9. Our traditional wholesome foods are part of our culture. The government
food schemes should respect this, and not pollute our young with inferior,
alien foods and tastes.
10. Our forests and traditional commons, our peoples and our cultures, are all
under grave threat from misconceived “development” projects, grabbing by
outsiders, and by modern agricultural methods and mono-cultural plantations.
These do grave harm, and must stop now. We further call for an immediate
end to our displacement and dispossession by such short-sighted, destructive
projects that devastate our life-culture and threaten our very survival.
11. We seek a rethinking of money-centric ‘development policies’, and urge a
holistic approach that respects our cultures and sustainable lifestyles; and
which enables us to live and thrive on our ancestral lands, safeguarding the
country’s rich ecological and cultural heritage.
12. We declare that we will do our very best to keep alive our rich heritage
resources and traditions. Welcoming a new era, we urge the support of all – to
safeguard and regenerate the health of our Mother Earth and forests. Our
warm greetings and heartfelt wishes are extended to all; and we humbly ask
you to support us!
This declaration is collectively endorsed by numerous representatives of adivasi
and forest-dependent communities, supported by other civil society representatives,
public health experts, nutrition scientists, ecologists, educators, sociologists,
senior State functionaries and concerned citizens.
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16. Greens & Vegetables
A glimpse of the enormously rich diversity of uncultivated leafy greens and vegetables
found in the forest. Some are consumed raw, others are cooked. Many offer multiple
nutritional and medicinal benefits. The maximum availability of these wild greens is
usually in late summer or early monsoon, when cultivated greens are relatively rare.
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17. Tubers & Mushrooms
Edible treasures from the forest floor or under it! A hitherto unknown world for most
city folk. The sheer diversity here is amazing. Commonly termed ‘Kanda’ or ‘Kand mool’
(generic name for a tuber) - some are perennial, some seasonal, some eaten raw, some
cooked. Some are fruity, crunchy, sweet and starchy; some are bitter. Some need careful
processing and detoxifying – commonly in a running stream for many hours or a few
days, and/ or boiled with wood ash – before they may be consumed. Many of these
tubers also serve as drought/famine insurance foods - always available even when nothing
else is. A good source of nutrition, and some of high medicinal value too.
Also seen here are several varieties of mushrooms, wild edible ones that pop up on the
forest floor when the first rains hit the ground. Different shapes, sizes, colors and
tastes. Many are dried and stored for later use.
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18. A Baiga man from baiga-chak. Wearing a
unique hat made of bamboo with layers
of Vauhinia Vahlii/ Maalu/ Siali leaves
sandwiched in between. This is rain-proof
headgear!
Adivasi woman from Machiyam village in
Malkangiri, Rayagada, Odisha.
An Adivasi group from Machiyam and
surrounding areas, in Odisha.
Bhil Adivasis from M.P.
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19. Adivasis have lived for 1000s of years.
We are not dependent on agriculture
because we have our forests. Our for-
ests- our mother will take care of us. It
is being said that Adivasis are destroy-
ing the forests. But adivasis only rely
on forest for sustenance, in restricted
way for making huts, etc. People from
outside, on the other hand, come in
trucks and take huge amounts of
wood.
Adivasi Voices
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As a mother, I worry about my kids. I
worry about the future generations.
Because people are coming and
destroying forest. Now in our area,
women are working and resisting this
destruction. We are growing trees and
plants again where they have been
brought down. We started to grow
again plants such as kanda, sattu, etc.
In this area, people who trade in
wood came and bombed the place,
to scare the adivasis and take the
wood. The local adivasi people
resisted this attack on their forest.
Since the last 4 years they have
regenerated the forest.
20. Published for educational use by Living Farms and Earthcare Books
Living Farms, Plot No-1181/2146, Ratnakar Bag-2, Tankapani Road, Bhubaneswar, Odisha - 751 018
Phone - +91-674-2430616 | Email - livingfarms@gmail.com
Earthcare Books, 10 Middleton Street, Kolkata, West Bengal - 700 071
Website- www.earthcarebooks.com | Email- earthcarebooks@gmail.com
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Living Farms gratefully acknowledges the following organizations and individuals
for their contribution towards making this festival a grand success
Donors
1. Welthungerhilfe
2. Chemi Solutions
3. Mr. Alex Jensen
4. Mr. Sunny Narang
5. Mr. Bharat. R
6. Ms. Kalpana
7. Ms. Divya Thomas
8. Mr. P.V. Narayanamoorthy
9. Ms. Kavitha Kuruganti
10. Mr. Anantha Padmanabhan
11. Ms. Sujatha Ramni
12. Mr. Ashok Hegde
13. Mr. Sandeep Bhogra
14. Mr. Ravi Ramakantan
15. Ms. Ilango Ezhil Kumari Periannan
16. Mr. Surya Narayana Murthy
17. Mr. Raghu Ananthanarayanan
Exhibition Design : Mr. Sayantan Maitra, Mr. Kanishka Prasad and Mr. Tarun Jayaram
A special mention for Mr. Ajay Mahajan for Festival Concept and Design, and without
whom this festival would not have been possible.