The state of Kerala has taken a significant step towards addressing the critical issue of declining agricultural biodiversity. The two-day Kerala Agro Biodiversity Conference-2025 (KAbCon-2025) was officially inaugurated on Monday at the College of Agriculture in Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram.
Inauguration with a Green Symbolism
The conference was set into motion by V K Ramachandran, the Vice-Chairperson of the State Planning Board. In a powerful symbolic act marking the commencement, saplings of five rare and protected plant species were planted. This green initiative highlighted the conference's core mission and included species like red sandalwood, white pine, Oudh tree, clumping reed bamboo, and blue fig.
Addressing the Alarming Decline
The inaugural session began with a welcome address from Roy Stephen, the Dean of the Faculty at the College of Agriculture. The gravity of the situation was underscored in a special address delivered by M C Dathan, the Scientific Advisor to the Chief Minister.
Dathan drew attention to the alarming loss of seed and plant diversity witnessed over recent years. He emphasized the urgent need for scientific research and policies that are directly applicable and beneficial to farmers, helping them tackle challenges at the field level.
A Collaborative Effort for Sustainable Future
KAbCon-2025 is a joint endeavor organized by the Kerala Agricultural University and the Kerala State Biodiversity Board. This collaboration between a premier academic institution and a governmental biodiversity body aims to create a comprehensive platform for discussion, knowledge sharing, and strategy formulation.
The conference is expected to delve into practical solutions, conservation techniques, and innovation-driven approaches to preserve Kerala's rich agro-biodiversity. The focus remains firmly on creating a resilient agricultural system that supports both the environment and the farming community.
