May 22nd is celebrated as International Day for Biological Diversity every year to increase the understanding and awareness of biodiversity issues. On this auspicious occasion of 25th International Biodiversity Day, Ministry of Forests and Environment (MoFE) celebrated 25th Biodiversity Day on 22 May, 2018 at National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC), Khumaltar in collaboration with Department of Forests (DOF), Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC), National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC), World Wildlife Fund (WWF-Nepal), Zoological Society of London (ZSL-Nepal), International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and Small Mammals Conservation and Research Foundation (SMCRF).
The Honorable Minister Shakti Bahadur Basnet, Ministry of Forests and Environment, inaugurated the program by watering the plant. Dr. Maheshwar Dhakal, Chief of Environment and Biodiversity Division, MoFE, enlightened the progression, major achievements and success in biodiversity conservation in Nepal along with the gaps, challenges and opportunities. Dr. Dhakal expressed that the conservation activities are not possible alone so coordination and collaboration of the government with various countries, organizations, INGO’s and NGO’s are required.
The books on biodiversity were launched by chief guests Dr. Krishna Prasad Oli (Member, National Planning Commission), Dr. Yubak Dhoj G.C. (Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Land management and Cooperatives) and Chair person Dr. Bishwanath Oli (Secretary, Ministry of Forest and Environment). The launched books were ‘Articles on Celebrating 25 Years Biodiversity Conservation’, ‘Photo book on Biodiversity’, ‘Ramsar Strategic Plan (2018-2024)’ and ‘Wildlife Stocklife Management Report’. A documentary on biodiversity was also premeired at the event. The program focused on conservation of biodiversity, transfer of traditional knowledge, development, proper use and management of natural resurces and sharing of the profits. The sustainable program ended with closing remarks from Dr. Oli. The event also comprised stalls of different conservation organizations displaying information posters, books, booklets, research equipment and photographs. T-shirts, cups, badges, dolls and various designs were also in display which contained the pictures and slogans on conservation of various wildlife including small mammals. SMCRF feels proud to be the part of the event.
