Forests are not only important source of subsistence, employment, revenue earnings, raw material to numerous industries but also play a pivotal role in ecological balance, environmental stability, bio-diversity conversation, food security and sustainable development, said experts on the 92nd Foundation Day of Indian institute of Natural Resins and Gums (IINRG) here on Monday.
Several vital issues on ‘an ecological approach for economic development through natural resins and gums’ were highlighted in the programme.
Speaking about the utility of varied natural resources Secretary of Vikas Bharti, Bishunpur, Padma Shri Ashok Bhagat said, “Natural resource management is lagging behind in the state. The State Government needs to conserve the natural resources. We have been blessed with abundant natural resources. But many traditional plants like Mahua, lac, Palash are on the verge of extinction. Government need to interfere in order to conserve the natural resources as livelihoods of many people is dependent on it.”
Addressing the people Bhagat further said, “Role of Research and development plays fundamental role in gathering knowledge about various products. Providing training to the rural people and utilising their skills helps in upliftment of communities. However, in the name of skill development brain drain should be avoided.”
Bhagat further emphasised on the proper documentation of natural resources, which is significant from the future perspective especially in the field of research and development.
On highlighting the role of forestry sector in national economy and livelihood support Former National Director, NAIP and Former Director IINRG, Ranchi Bangali Baboo said, “The gross value of goods and services provided by the forestry sector is estimated at an average of Rs. 26,330 crores which is about 2.37 percent of GDP in the year 2005-06. Of this recorded forest revenue about 60 percent comes from minor forest products including resins and gums. The sector supports about 50 million population inhabiting forests and sub-forest areas and 70 percent of employment in the sector is in the minor forest produce.”
“But several issues like low productivity due to unscientific and unmanaged production, excess tapping of natural recourses, lack of documented information on available resources and moreover lack of awareness on merits, applications and potential of natural resins and gums also create hindrance in this sector,” added Baboo.
On the occasion of 92nd Foundation Day of the institute five books were also unveiled by the dignitaries. Skilled supporting staffs, engineers, Administrative staffs and Technical division employees were felicitated for their contribution and outstanding work on the occasion.
Director of IINRG Dr. Keval Krishna Sharma delivered the welcome speech of the event, which was also attended by Central University Vice-Chancellor Nand Kumar Yadav among other eminent guests.