Aizawl, February 3, 2026: Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Pu Vanlalhlana on Tuesday inaugurated a two-day International Conference on Recent Advances in Environmental Research, Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Development at the auditorium of Pachhunga University College (PUC).
The conference is jointly organised by the Department of Environmental Science, Pachhunga University College, and the Society for AgroEnvironmental Sustainability, Dehradun. Higher & Technical Education Minister Dr. Vanlalthlana attended the inaugural session as the guest of honour.
In his inaugural address, PWD Minister Pu Vanlalhlana described the conference as timely and significant, noting that rapid environmental degradation, biodiversity loss and climate change are not only global concerns but also pose serious threats to livelihoods, food security and the well-being of future generations. He stressed that developmental activities and environmental conservation must go hand in hand and be pursued in a balanced and cautious manner.
Highlighting the need for infrastructure development such as roads, buildings and other facilities, the Minister said such activities often put pressure on forests and natural resources. He emphasised that sustainable development requires informed planning and scientific inputs. Calling upon students and researchers to intensify their research efforts, he urged them to utilise their knowledge and expertise for the benefit of the state and to work closely with the government. He also encouraged participants to make full use of the conference for meaningful academic exchange.
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Addressing the gathering, Higher & Technical Education Minister Dr. Vanlalthlana said that ensuring a healthy and sustainable environment is essential not only for the present generation but also for those to come. He underscored the need for collaborative and focused research by students and planners to create a livable and resilient future. He also highlighted the Mizoram government’s initiatives in environmental conservation and ongoing efforts to strengthen the education system by promoting innovative thinking and broader perspectives among students.
Dr. Vanlalthlana further urged students and researchers to go beyond academic pursuits and contribute towards nation-building by understanding central schemes and development programmes, remaining vigilant against irregularities, and using tools such as the Right to Information (RTI) Act responsibly.
The inaugural programme was chaired by Dr. Kulendra Chandra Das, Head of the Department of Environmental Science, PUC. Dr. Hilda Lalrinpuii, Assistant Professor, Department of Environmental Science, PUC, presented an overview of the conference, while Prof. H. Lalthanzara, Principal of Pachhunga University College, delivered the welcome address. The vote of thanks was proposed by Dr. Lallawmkimi, Assistant Professor, Department of Environmental Science, PUC.
The international conference is being conducted in both online and offline modes and has drawn participation from students, researchers and experts from Mizoram and other parts of the country. The participants will present papers and engage in discussions on a wide range of themes related to environmental research, biodiversity conservation and sustainable development over the two days.
