Andhra University emphasises environmental conservation

Vice-Chancellor Prof Andhra University (AU) Vice-Chancellor Prof G Sasibhushan Rao has emphasised the critical importance of environmental conservation at a two-day workshop on ‘Conservation of Endemic Species in the Eastern Ghats’.
Addressing the gathering, Rao remarked, “Preserving environmental balance is not just a responsibility, but a necessity.” He drew a stark comparison to the environmental devastation wrought by atomic bombs. “Neglecting the environment could lead to equally dire consequences,” he cautioned.
Dr SS Das, a scientist from the Botanical Survey of India, captivated attendees with insights into his research on plant intelligence, revealing that plants can respond to music—a discovery that speaks to the complex, often unobserved connections within ecosystems. “Plants, too, respond to external stimuli. This discovery only strengthens our commitment to conserve and understand them better,” Dr Das said, calling for a more harmonious relationship between humans and nature.
Conference convener Prof SB Padal highlighted the Eastern Ghats’ unique biodiversity, pointing out that the AU Botanical Garden preserves over 30 rare species native to the region. “The Eastern Ghats are home to an irreplaceable variety of life, and protecting these endemic species is essential to safeguarding our biodiversity,” he said.
Prof. MVR Raju, Principal of Science College, raised concerns over the rapid degradation of forested areas due to activities such as mining, unregulated tourism, and encroachment. “Forests are irreplaceable ecosystems that deserve respect and protection. We must raise awareness of the lasting damage these activities cause,” he urged, stressing the need for a shift in public perception towards conservation.
The Forestry Department presented plans to organise conservation awareness programmes, while the Department Head, Prof. D. Sandhya Deepika, shared an update on ongoing departmental initiatives aimed at sustaining local biodiversity. The workshop brought together distinguished professors, scientists, and environmentalists.has emphasised the critical importance of environmental conservation at a two-day workshop on ‘Conservation of Endemic Species in the Eastern Ghats’.
Addressing the gathering, Rao remarked, “Preserving environmental balance is not just a responsibility, but a necessity.” He drew a stark comparison to the environmental devastation wrought by atomic bombs. “Neglecting the environment could lead to equally dire consequences,” he cautioned.
Dr SS Das, a scientist from the Botanical Survey of India, captivated attendees with insights into his research on plant intelligence, revealing that plants can respond to music—a discovery that speaks to the complex, often unobserved connections within ecosystems. “Plants, too, respond to external stimuli. This discovery only strengthens our commitment to conserve and understand them better,” Dr Das said, calling for a more harmonious relationship between humans and nature.
Conference convener Prof SB Padal highlighted the Eastern Ghats’ unique biodiversity, pointing out that the AU Botanical Garden preserves over 30 rare species native to the region. “The Eastern Ghats are home to an irreplaceable variety of life, and protecting these endemic species is essential to safeguarding our biodiversity,” he said.
Prof. MVR Raju, Principal of Science College, raised concerns over the rapid degradation of forested areas due to activities such as mining, unregulated tourism, and encroachment. “Forests are irreplaceable ecosystems that deserve respect and protection. We must raise awareness of the lasting damage these activities cause,” he urged, stressing the need for a shift in public perception towards conservation.
The Forestry Department presented plans to organise conservation awareness programmes, while the Department Head, Prof. D. Sandhya Deepika, shared an update on ongoing departmental initiatives aimed at sustaining local biodiversity. The workshop brought together distinguished professors, scientists, and environmentalists.