PANAJI
The Goa government has decided to establish a genome sequencing laboratory in collaboration with the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad, as part of efforts to strengthen scientific wildlife management in the State.
The meeting chaired by Forest Minister Vishwajit Rane also resolved to undertake carrying-capacity assessments and the formulation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for waterfalls across the State.
Rane said that the proposed genome sequencing laboratory is expected to enhance scientific research and wildlife conservation efforts. He said that the meeting also covered strengthening wildlife rescue and veterinary infrastructure, including the appointment of dedicated veterinary personnel, and studies on wildlife movement patterns aimed at reducing human-wildlife conflict.
Rane said that he discussed the inquiry into the recent leopard and tiger death, augmentation of road networks within protected areas to improve patrolling, control of invasive species, enhancement of grasslands and native fruit-bearing vegetation.
The Minister said that the decision was also taken for the conservation of turtle nesting habitats through the inclusion of additional sites in the Coastal Zone Management Plan (CZMP) 2019.
The progress of the Bondla Zoo Foundation was also assessed, with plans to prepare a comprehensive development roadmap and upgrade facilities in line with global zoo standards, he said.
Rane also reviewed plans to make registration mandatory for tour and trek operators conducting activities in protected areas, while ensuring greater community participation in eco-tourism initiatives.
“Conservation, scientific management, community participation and public safety remain at the heart of our efforts to protect and preserve Goa’s rich natural heritage for future generations. We are committed to strengthening research, improving wildlife infrastructure and ensuring that tourism activities in forest areas are carried out in a safe and sustainable manner," the Minister said.
The meeting further reviewed plantation activities undertaken under the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam campaign, geo-tagging and survival monitoring of saplings, the functioning of the Wildlife Rescue and Complaint App, social media outreach initiatives, and proposed amendments to the Goa Forest Service Rules.
