Shillong, June 2: In a bid to bridge traditional ecological wisdom with modern conservation science, the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) on Tuesday organised the regional round of Hackathon 2026 in Shillong, focusing on biodiversity conservation practices rooted in indigenous knowledge systems of Northeast India.

The event, hosted by the North Eastern Regional Centre of ZSI, is part of a nationwide initiative marking 111 years of the institution’s contribution to faunal research and biodiversity conservation in India.

Held under the theme “Traditional Knowledge in Biodiversity Conservation in North-Eastern States of India,” the hackathon aimed to generate innovative ideas and policy interventions that integrate community-based traditional practices with contemporary conservation challenges.

A team representing the Pynthor Bhoilasa Biodiversity Management Committee from Ri-Bhoi district of Meghalaya emerged as the winner of the regional competition. The winning team — comprising Lurshai L. Rympei, Babuhnam Lyngdoh and Meshwanaki Rympei — will now represent the region at the national-level Hackathon to be held in Dehradun.

The competition was evaluated by a five-member jury that included former Botanical Survey of India Director and current Martin Luther Christian University Vice Chancellor Dr Ashish A. Mao, along with academicians and scientists from North-Eastern Hill University, Lady Keane College and ZSI Shillong.

Speaking at the event, officials highlighted the growing importance of traditional ecological knowledge in addressing biodiversity loss, habitat degradation and climate-related threats across ecologically sensitive regions such as the Northeast.

The programme began with a welcome address by Jennifer Lyngdoh, Scientist-E and Officer-in-Charge of ZSI Shillong, while Dr Uttam Saikia presented an overview of the hackathon and its objectives.

Faculty members and students from educational institutions in Shillong and Mawphlang attended the event, reflecting increasing academic interest in community-led conservation approaches in the region.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr Saipari Sailo, Scientist-D, ZSI Shillong.