'Documenting tribal wisdom key to biodiversity conservation'

In a conversation with Kritika Tiwary, the principal chief conservator of forests and member secretary of the Jharkhand Biodiversity Board, Sanjeev Kumar, highlighted the efforts to conserve biodiversity. He emphasized on the state's growing focus to evolve local communities and preserve both ecological and indigenous knowledge systems

Q. When did efforts to document and conserve biodiversity officially begin in the state? Were there any key turning points?

A: The formal journey began with the establishment of the Jharkhand Biodiversity Board in 2007, marking the start of systematic documentation. A significant turning point came in 2024 when the board launched a campaign to identify Biodiversity Heritage Sites (BHS). With Biodiversity Management Committees' (BMCs) involvement, over 100 such sites have been identified.

Q. Is there an ongoing effort to document tribal and indigenous knowledge systems related to biodiversity and traditional practices?

A: Yes, documenting tribal and indigenous knowledge is central to the state's biodiversity conservation strategy. Currently, 4,689 People's Biodiversity Registers (PBRs) are maintained with BMC's support. These are regularly updated, and local BMC members receive training to document indigenous knowledge and practices, preserving traditional wisdom for future generations.

Q. Are there any endangered species in the state that have been officially identified?

A: Yes, surveys by the Botanical Survey of India and Zoological Survey of India have identified several threatened species. These include 24 plant species such as Salai and Bija Sal, and five fauna species, including the dolphin, white vulture, and gharial.

Q. What specific steps are being taken to conserve biodiversity?

A: The Jharkhand Biodiversity Board actively involves local communities through regular capacity-building programmes in panchayats, colleges, and universities. Educational materials are available in local languages, and resource persons from farming and tribal communities receive training on sustainable forest-based livelihoods. The initiative emphasizes women empowerment and youth engagement through school nurseries and upcoming internship and certificate courses.

Q. What are the future plans or policies to enhance biodiversity conservation and sustainable use of biological resources in state?

A: The board's roadmap includes managing over 100 identified Biodiversity Heritage Sites with site-specific plans. Conservation efforts focus on keystone species like Ficus spp and tigers, along with 29 threatened plant and animal species. Ongoing scientific studies with the Botanical and Zoological Survey of India will continue. A pilot Biodiversity Credit Programme is being considered for climate finance. Mining companies must develop conservation and livelihood plans for affected areas. School-based indigenous plant nurseries promote awareness, while the state is working towards conserving endangered Tasar silk varieties like Sarihan eco-race. The goal includes restoring 30% of degraded land by 2030 and updating all 4,689 People's Biodiversity Registers to document lost crop varieties, including over 100 traditional rice types.