‘We share a special relationship with the earth. Betraying it for our own selfish motives amounts to the biggest sin.’ 

In December 2000 the United Nation adopted 22nd of May as International Day for Biological Diversity. This day is often overlooked and it is understandable as people are busy trying to outdo each other in this age of rapid development and growth.

But growth at what cost? The current trend and trajectory of developmental practices will have serious consequences for the diversity not just of the region but for the globe as a whole.

The biological diversity of a region ensures the natural sustainability of all life forms within the region. There is a saying ‘ we are what we make of ourselves’. Our state of Manipur is blessed with numerous bioresources and I would not be wrong if I say the state’s biological and economic future depends on it.

The statement might seem oxymoronic at first but it is true. There is a greater need to utilise the state’s resources in a bioeconomic context(this is not going to be easy but it is certainly possible.

This would not only ensure better reliance on ourselves but also reduce economic dependence on others. However, it would be completely futile and meaningless if the strategy we follow in utilising our bioresources is not sustainable in the long run because it is the children and the younger generations we worry for.

We have two options; either to rely on the outside world for economic avenues or utilise our own bioresources to sustain our people. The latter strategy would be a sensible choice even though it won’t be easy and would certainly come with accountability on our part. And this particular strategy augurs well for our state which is blessed with enormous bio resources.

But it is certainly better than being dependent and indebted to the outside world.

The current circumstances have shown the whole world that nothing in life ought to be taken for granted. Also, it has face-planted us with the harsh reality that the world is a better place when we do not fiddle with its aesthetic and spiritual originality. An example is seeing dolphins in Venice when the world shuts down in the face of the Coronavirus.

Environmentally, ethical and sustainable techniques of earth’s bioresources should always be our top priority. It is our duty and responsibility as elders to leave an environmentally sustainable future for our children