MESSAGE

I am delighted to know that “International Day for Biological Diversity” is being observed on 22nd May, 2023 in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, alongwith rest of the country and world on the theme “From Agreement to Action: Build Back Biodiversity”.
Biodiversity is the interconnections and interrelationships between the variety of living species, forming a life support system on planet earth. These resources are the pillars on which civilizations are built, and its degradation will threaten the existence of all lives, including that of human beings. The world has recently gone through the worst pandemic phase and it has been proven that further loss of biodiversity has potential to increase the possibility of more animal-human transmitted diseases. The only way is to protect our biological diversity, as this will act as an excellent shield to fight such pandemics in future.
Our Islands are blessed with rich biodiversity, harboring a unique assemblage of life forms, both in terrestrial as well as marine ecosystems. We are committed to the conservation and protection of unique, yet sensitive and fragile ecosystems for sustainable development and a healthy environment for posterity. This year, Govt. of India has launched a nationwide initiative for updation and verification of People’s Biodiversity Register (PBR) of various local bodies through graduate and post graduate students. Our Administration too will be participating in this programme.
Therefore, on this occasion, I appeal to the people of our Islands to come forward and take all possible actions for preservation of the unique biodiversity of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands to ensure the well-being of planet earth.

Sd/-
(Admiral D K Joshi)
PVSM, AVSM, YSM, NM, VSM (Retd.)
Lieutenant Governor, A&N Islands
&
Vice Chairman, Islands Development Agency