Paperman Media (Bhubaneswar)- Kalinga Kusum Foundation (KKF) observed the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem on July 26, 2026 at IMAGE, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar, under the global theme "Protect Mangroves, Protect Our Future." The programme brought together academicians, environmental experts, researchers, government officials, representatives of civil society organisations, students, and environmental enthusiasts to deliberate on the conservation, restoration, and sustainable management of mangrove ecosystems.
Welcoming the participants, Er. Sanjit Kumar Behera, Trustee, Kalinga Kusum Foundation, delivered a presentation on the "Significance of the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem." He highlighted the ecological, economic, and social importance of mangroves in protecting coastal communities from cyclones, storm surges, and coastal erosion, conserving biodiversity, supporting livelihoods, and mitigating the impacts of climate change. He emphasised the need for collaborative action involving government agencies, academic institutions, civil society organisations, and local communities to conserve and restore Odisha's mangrove ecosystems
Addressing the gathering as the Chief Guest, Prof. (Dr.) Mahendra Kumar Mohanty, Hon'ble Vice-Chancellor, MSCB University, Baripada, underscored the critical role of mangroves in strengthening coastal resilience, reducing disaster risks, enhancing carbon sequestration, and safeguarding the livelihoods of coastal communities. He stressed the importance of integrating scientific knowledge, community participation, and policy support to ensure the long-term conservation of mangrove ecosystems.
The Chief Speaker, Prof. (Dr.) Manoj Kumar Tripathy, Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, delivered a technical lecture on "Integrated Pest Management in Mangroves: Balancing Insect Pest Management, Ecosystem Health and Coastal Resilience." He explained the importance of adopting science-based and environmentally sustainable pest management practices to maintain the health and resilience of mangrove ecosystems while preserving ecological balance.
An interactive discussion followed, during which participants exchanged views on mangrove restoration, biodiversity conservation, climate adaptation, community participation, and sustainable coastal resource management. The deliberations highlighted the importance of strengthening partnerships among government departments, research institutions, civil society organisations, and local communities to promote nature-based solutions for climate resilience and environmental sustainability.
Proposing the Vote of Thanks, Er. Dibyachand Shukla, Managing Trustee, Kalinga Kusum Foundation, expressed his sincere gratitude to the Chief Guest, Chief Speaker, distinguished participants, partner institutions, and all stakeholders for their valuable contributions towards the successful organisation of the programme. He reaffirmed the Foundation's commitment to promoting mangrove restoration, environmental conservation, sustainable natural resource management, and community-led climate resilience initiatives across Odisha.
The programme concluded with a collective pledge by the participants to strengthen efforts for the conservation and restoration of mangrove ecosystems and to promote sustainable environmental practices for protecting Odisha's rich coastal heritage and ensuring a resilient future for generations to come.
