Governor inaugurates conference on Sustainable Consumption
Advocates on increasing use of organic manure and natural farming
Guwahati,Rongili Barta- “Conservation of nature or of our culture is the responsibility of each and every citizen. We must generate this consciousness in our daily lives, whether it is saving energy, water or the use of alternate sources of energy. This is the only solution to save the delicate ecosystem of our region,” said Assam Governor Prof. Jagdish Mukhi at the inaugural function of a conference held on Sustainable Consumption at IIT-Guwahati.
Speaking at the function, which was organised by the Power Foundation of India, the Governor said, “Assam and other North Eastern States today is on the cusp of change. The region as a whole has witnessed exponential growth not only in tourism but also on other parameters of development. Moving beyond the traditional economic activities based on tea, crafts and forest based products, the region is today known for its massive contribution in diverse segments like paper, cement, petroleum, fertilizers and mineral resources. Several IT and IT enabled Services companies have also shown interest in setting up their bases here in North East.”
Prof. Mukhi also said, “Along with the pace of development that is taking place in the region, we are also very proud of its rich culture and heritage and of course its environment. As we are progressing economically, we sometimes tend to forget to harness the knowledge of our ancestors. Our culture, our beliefs, our values and principles are set aside to mindless growth. In the process we are losing touch with our nature.” Therefore, the Governor said that in a bid to boost the state’s economy efforts should be on to increase agriculture and horticulture produce by exploring the traditional practices of farming with emphasis on organic and pesticide free produce. North Eastern region of the country is the treasure trove for organic farming. Considering this potential Prime Narendra Modi termed this region an organic hub, the Governor said. Therefore, along with desisting from using the inorganic fertilizers, Prof. Mukhi advocated for increasing use of organic fertilizers and resort to natural farming. The Governor also said that the conference is being held at a very appropriate time when the world is deeply concerned for global warming and its harmful consequences. It is time for India to lead the way by harnessing the traditional wisdom in sustainable planning which is imperative to ensure growth of the region. It may be mentioned that Power Foundation of India in association with Vijnana Bharati (VIBHA) is running a campaign to create awareness on Agni Tattva under Lifestyle for environment. This campaign includes conferences, seminars, events, and exhibitions across the country involving educational institutions, communities and relevant organisations to create awareness of the core concept of Agni Tattva, an element that is synonymous with energy. Director General, Power Foundation Sanjiv Nandan Sahai, Additional Secretary Ministry of Power, Govt.of India Ajay Tewari, Director General NPTI Dr.Tripta Thakur, Director IIT-G Prof.T.G.Sitharam also spoke on the occasion.