The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA), in association with the Puducherry Biodiversity Council, Pondicherry University, Manakula Vinayagar Institute of Technology (MVIT), and the Association for Promoting Sustainability in Campuses and Communities (APSCC), jointly organised a two-day awareness and capacity-building programme on the Biological Diversity Act and its amendments, here recently.The programme brought together members of BMCs, government officials, representatives of the Puducherry Biodiversity Council, subject experts from various government departments, faculty members, students, and other stakeholders for a series of deliberations and technical sessions.In his address, P. Arulrajan, Chief Wildlife Warden and Conservator of Forests, Puducherry, emphasised the vital role of individuals in the conservation and documentation of the region’s biodiversity. He also underlined the importance of documenting microbial diversity and traditional knowledge in the People’s Biodiversity Register (PBR), noting their significance in sustaining healthy ecosystems and supporting long-term conservation efforts.Professor P. Natarajan, Director of the Directorate of Culture and Cultural Relations at Pondicherry University, spoke on the biodiversity governance framework and its alignment with international environmental commitments and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He stressed on the pivotal role of youth in safeguarding nature’s biological heritage and promoting sustainable environmental stewardship.Professor S. Malarkkan, Principal of Manakula Vinayagar Institute of Technology, described biodiversity conservation as a shared responsibility that goes beyond any single academic discipline or technological domain. He encouraged participants to actively contribute to implementing the Act and conserving biological resources.Programme coordinator M. Nandhivarman and R. Valli, Dean, MVIT participated. Published - July 28, 2026 08:48 pm IST