Eminent personalities join Odisha Environment Congress at Koraput, call for protecting nature, tribals’ livelihood

BY Surya Narayan Panda

Koraput, Dec. 21: Many eminent personalities, including India Meteorological Department (IMD) Director General Dr Mrutyunjaya Mohapatra, of the country have joined in the 13th Odisha Environment Congress session which began at Central University of Orissa, Koraput, today.

The speakers said the nature and environment can be protected if the livelihood of tribals is protected.

“The present day human beings and administrations must learn from tribal communities how to lead a good life with nature. There is a need for taking help of the tribals to maintain our forest resources,” said the speakers.

The speakers also pleaded for preparing a long-term action plan for the protection of the environment by involving the tribals.

The 13th Environment Congress was inaugurated at the Central University campus in Koraput. The IMD DG graced the occasion as chief guest.

Retired administrators Arvibinda Behera, Bhrugu Baxipatra, Sudarshan Das, Dr. Kamalakant Mishra, Babu Ambat of Kerala, Vice Chancellor of the CUO, Koraput, among others, have joined the event.

Prominent social workers, Sumani Jhodia, Raimati Ghiuria and Banda tribe social worker Surendra Naik addressed the gathering.

The tribal leaders said if their livelihoods are protected, they would not be influenced by any individuals and agencies.

The experts discussed how to protect the livelihood of the tribal people and protect the environment. The organizer is very hopeful that the meeting of Koraput will help give a new look to the world in terms of development, protection of the environment and livelihood of the tribal people.