National conference on indigenous knowledge held in Mandi
A two-day national conference on Indigenous Knowledge Systems for a Sustainable Future, a road map to Viksit Bharat-2047, concluded on Friday with a series of thought-provoking discussions on the urgent need for environmentally sustainable practices. The conference, organised by Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry at the College of Horticulture and Forestry at Thunag in Mandi district, brought together key experts to address the importance of integrating indigenous knowledge into modern environmental solutions.
Sanjeev Chauhan, Director of Research at UHF and National General Secretary of the Indian Ecological Society, emphasised the importance of achieving financial independence for institutions while highlighting the need for region-specific research. He stressed the role of indigenous knowledge in developing practical solutions that would support sustainable development. “Development is inevitable, but we must decide what kind of development we want and what truly meets our needs,” he said.
Nachan Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Surender Singh Kashyap, who was the guest of honour, stressed the critical role of forests in mitigating climate change. He expressed concerns about the effects of climate change on forest ecosystems and the shifts in precipitation patterns that threaten these vital areas. He called for enhanced environmental protection efforts, better harvesting techniques and the restoration of degraded land. Kashyap also encouraged the youth involvement in conservation and emphasised the need for greater education to inspire action.
The conference saw over 130 participants from 17 universities and research institutes from eight states, who engaged in technical sessions on five critical themes. Eminent keynote speakers shared their expertise on various aspects of indigenous knowledge systems and their potential for sustainable development.
Prof Pradeep Kumar, Dean-Academics at CUHP, explored India’s scientific and technological heritage, focusing on the importance of innovation for achieving Viksit Bharat 2047. Ashish Gupta, Founding Trustee of Gram Disha Trust, discussed the evolution of natural farming and its potential for marketing, citing examples like UHF Nauni's promotion of natural farming.
Padma Shri awardee Nek Ram Sharma underscored the significance of traditional agricultural practices like millet cultivation and natural farming for improving soil health, biodiversity and nutrition. Dr Pankaj Sood, Principal Scientist at KVK, Mandi, explained the scientific principles behind various indigenous agricultural practices.
Biospark Managing Director Prashant apprised the participants of medicinal significance of cannabis and discussed the company's work on regulated cannabis cultivation for medicinal use. Prof DR Thakur, Director of UGC-MMTTC (HRDC), spoke on validating indigenous knowledge systems and the importance of compassion in nature conservation.
Dr KT Parthiban, former Dean of the Forest College and Research Institute, highlighted innovations in agroforestry, while Dr Sushil Kapta, Expert at HP JICA Forestry Projects, Shimla, discussed the significance of forest ecology and the various funding projects in Himachal Pradesh.
The conference brought together researchers, policymakers and practitioners to exchange ideas and foster a greater understanding of the role indigenous knowledge systems can play in building a sustainable future.
