ABOUT THE EVENT
The United Nations has proclaimed May 22 as The International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB) to increase understanding and awareness of biodiversity issues. When first created by the Second Committee of the UN General Assembly in late 1993, 29 December (the date of entry into force of the Convention of Biological Diversity), was designated The International Day for Biological Diversity. In December 2000, the UN General Assembly adopted 22 May as IDB, to commemorate the adoption of the text of the Convention on 22 May 1992 by the Nairobi Final Act of the Conference for the Adoption of the Agreed Text of the Convention on Biological Diversity.
Fig1.: Logo for “Be part of the Plan”, the theme of IDB 2024, is a call to action for all stakeholders to halt and reverse the loss of biodiversity by supporting the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, also referred to as the The Biodiversity Plan[ Convention on Biodiversity, https://www.cbd.int/biodiversity-day].
International Day for Biological Diversity, celebrated on May 22nd each year, aims to raise awareness and understanding of biodiversity issues. It highlights the importance of preserving biological diversity to ensure the well-being of present and future generations. The day emphasizes the critical role biodiversity plays in providing ecosystem services, such as clean air, water, food, and medicine.
It also serves as a reminder of the urgent need to combat biodiversity loss caused by human activities like habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change. Through various activities and initiatives, the day encourages individuals, communities, and governments to take action to safeguard biodiversity and promote sustainable development.
At SRM University's Faculty of Law, we commemorate International Day for Biological Diversity with enthusiasm and purpose. Through educational events and discussions, we highlight the intersection between environmental law and biodiversity conservation.
Our faculty and students engage in activities to raise awareness about the importance of legal frameworks in preserving biodiversity. We emphasize the role of law in addressing biodiversity loss and promoting sustainable development. Collaborating with experts, we explore legal avenues to protect ecosystems and species diversity. Together, we reaffirm our commitment to nurturing a legal ecosystem that safeguards our planet's biological richness for future generations.
Guest Speaker:
- Rajesh S. Kumar, IFS and Inspector General of Forests (IGF) in the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, Government of India.
- 2.Prof (Dr) Vijay Kumar Singh, Dean, Faculty of Law, SRM University
- 3.Dr Prateek Deol, Associate Professor, faculty of Law, SRM University
Fig 2: Flyer-Poster for International day for Biodiversity, The eminent panelist Mr Rajesh Kumar, Dr Vijay Kumar and Dr Prateek Deol.
The event was targeted for 3rd Year and 4th Year IPR students initially and the event was attended by more than 100 students’ by the hybrid mode.
Proceedings of the Event
The event was scheduled at 2:30 p.m. of 22nd May 2024. The event began with a thunderous introduction of the panelist by Chakshu, 1st Year BALLB student. The star panelist Mr Rajesh Kumar, IFS has started with explaining the concept of Convention on Biodiversity and continue with explanation and implementation of Biodiversity Act in India. The session was enriching and informative. After 1 hour of information sharing the enthusiast students asked few relevant and specific questions to him. He satisfied the eagerness of the students with appropriate answers.
Fig 3: Mr Rajesh Kumar, IFS, Delivering the lecture
In line our next panelist Dr Prateek Deol, Associate Professor has shared his views on the clear distinction between Environmental Act and Biodiversity Act. He explain the different approach and effect of both the Acts to the environment. The session was very intellectual with lots of illustration to explanation.
Fig 4: Dr Prateek Deol, Associate Professor, Delivering the lecture
Fig 5: Panel Discussion was audience by more than 100 students in Hybrid mode.
At the end our host panelist Dr Vijay Kumar, Dean Faculty of Law has shared his views on the Biodiversity theme and essence of the Day. As explaining he emphasized on the role of sustainable development and contribution to the society. He encouraged all the students to contribute towards the theme- “Be part of the Plan”.
Fig 6: Panel Discussion by Dr Vijay K Singh. Dean Faculty of Law.
The event ended with the vote of thanks to panelist, audience and volunteers was offered by Umang, 1st year BALLB student. The determination of the students for effective contribution to protect and preserve our environment was distinct after the session.
Fig 7: Umang, 1st Year BALLB, delivering vote of Thanks!!
Conclusion and Out-come
The legal awareness and sensitization of role for promoting the theme of Biodiversity Day was remarkable amongst the students and faculty of Law.
Fig 8: Contribution towards BIODIVERSITY by marking the event.
Fig 9: Volunteers and Team Center for IPR, SR
