Seminar to Explore Development and Sustainability in Northeast India
On January 30th, 2024, Department of Commerce at Government College Bomdila, in collaboration with the Directorate of Higher and Technical Education, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, organised a one-day national seminar on “Development and Sustainability: Emerging Challenges in Northeast India with Special Reference to Arunachal Pradesh.” The seminar aimed to delve into critical issues surrounding sustainable development in the region, highlighting the importance of addressing environmental concerns while fostering economic growth.
The seminar commenced with an inaugural session, where Dr. Sangey Drema, Head of the Commerce Department at Government College Bomdila, extended a warm welcome to all participants. Dr. Drema emphasized the significance of sustainable development in preserving the natural resources of Northeast India for future generations. Following his address, Dr. Tashi Phuntso, Principal, underlined the multifaceted interlinkages between economic development and sustainability. While thanking the Director, Shri A. Jongkey and A.K Mishra, SLO cum Incharge Academic matters, DHTE for their support , he also encouraged participants to engage in research endeavors aimed at finding innovative solutions to the region’s developmental challenges.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Sanjib Kumar Borkakoti, a renowned researcher in medieval Assamese literature. Dr. Borkakoti’s speech shed light on the depletion of natural resources in Northeast India and underscored the importance of adopting sustainable practices to safeguard the environment. He emphasized the need for a balanced approach to development that considers the well-being of both present and future generations. Additionally, Dr. Borkakoti’s insights into the cultural heritage of the region added a unique perspective to the seminar’s discourse.
The chief guest of the inaugural function , Shri. Lobsang Tsetan, ADC Rupa, Subdivision and an alumnus of the College reiterated the importance of environmental conservation and assured administrative support for initiatives aimed at protecting the region’s natural heritage. His presence added gravitas to the seminar as he donated books worth Rupees 50,000/- to faculty library under the ongoing ‘ThankyouGcB Campaign ‘ launched by the Alumni Support group.
The technical sessions of the seminar featured presentations by esteemed scholars and researchers from various institutions across the region. Topics ranged from sustainable agriculture practices and traditional knowledge systems to the impact of tourism on local environments. Dr. Biswajit Ghose, Assistant Professor at Tezpur University, and Dr. Tasi Kaye, former Head of Commerce and Management at Rajiv Gandhi Central University, chaired the technical sessions, ensuring a structured and insightful discussion on the multifaceted challenges of development and sustainability in Northeast India.
During the sessions, speakers highlighted the need for integrating green skills into the curriculum to promote sustainable livelihoods, the role of indigenous knowledge in biodiversity conservation, and the challenges posed by rising unemployment. Around 17 papers on wide range of topics were presented in both online and offline mode, providing valuable insights into the complexities of achieving sustainable development in the region and underscored the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to address these challenges effectively.
The seminar concluded with a valedictory session with shri Passang Dorjee Megeji Vice President, AITTF as the Chief Guest, who distributed Certificates to the participants. He interacted with the participants and reflected on the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing the region’s developmental challenges. He also volunteered to host the dinner to all participants of the day as his gesture of respect. The event concluded with the expression of gratitude by miss Lhamo Minto to all participants, organizers, Guests, NCC and NSS volunteers and sponsors for their support in making the seminar a resounding success.
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