Shillong, Dec 3: In an exciting development for conservation enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, Dr. Nazir Ahmad Bhat, Assistant Professor in the Department of Botany at the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM), has been awarded a prestigious international research project funded by the European Forest Institute (EFI), Finland.

The project, titled “Biodiversity Impacts of Forest Landscape Restoration in Meghalaya, India,” aims to unlock the secrets of how forests recover after years of degradation and human interference.

This groundbreaking initiative will delve into the long-term effects of forest landscape restoration (FLR) on the region’s rich biodiversity. Advanced technologies and innovative methodologies will be employed to track changes over time, assessing the success of afforestation, reforestation, and revegetation (ARR) initiatives. The research promises to reveal how well Meghalaya’s forests are bouncing back and could set the standard for forest recovery efforts globally.

Why is this significant ? Meghalaya sits at the heart of the Indo-Myanmar biodiversity hotspot, a rare ecological intersection of the Indo-Malayan and Eastern Himalayan biogeographical zones. Its varied landscapes and climates nurture a stunning array of flora and fauna, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth. However, decades of deforestation, mining, and land-use changes have taken a toll, leaving just 6% of the state under strict protection despite its wealth of national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and sacred groves.

The European Forest Institute, an international organization established by European states, is a leader in global forest-related research and policy initiatives. EFI’s efforts include studying the biodiversity impacts of large-scale restoration projects and collaborating with implementers to address research gaps. Their overarching goal is to develop a comprehensive global database on the biodiversity outcomes of afforestation and reforestation projects, making this project in Meghalaya a key contribution to their mission.

The research not only enhances understanding of biodiversity recovery but also underscores the ecological significance of Meghalaya, a region renowned for its rich biodiversity.

For locals and conservationists, this research could pave the way for smarter, more sustainable forest management strategies, ensuring that future generations continue to enjoy the lush green landscapes and unique wildlife that make Meghalaya truly special.

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