Dr N Munal Meitei
Contd from previous issue
Farmers are trained in organic farming, agroforestry and crop residue management, direct seeding of rice and water-efficient irrigation methods. These prac- tices not only enhance productivity but also protect the environment, leading to more sustainable livelihoods.
Health is a critical component of sustainability focusing on improving healthcare access, sanitation and nutrition. These efforts reduce disease prevalence, improve maternal and child health and increase life expectancy. Access to clean water and proper sanitation prevent diseases. Education is at cornerstone of sustainability on improving to quality education and skill development that empower individuals and drive community growth.
Protecting the environment and addressing climate change are integral to sustainability. Initiatives that focus on reforestation, waste management, renewable energy and sustainable land use help communities mitigate and adapt to environmental challenges. Women’s empowerment is also another issue for sustainability, improving access to education, health-care and promoting gender equality.
Community participation is a key element of sustaina-bility. When community members are actively involved in the planning, implementation and monitoring of initiatives, they foster and tailored to the needs of sustainability.
India being the most populous country, rank 112th out of 166 countries in terms of the Sustainable Development Goals, (SDG) and 176th in 180 countries in Global Nature Conservation Index in 2024. With many anthropogenic impacts, Manipur ranks 16th in all India Sustainable Development Goals index.
Sustainable initiatives are vital for fostering community growth and resilience. By balancing environmental protection, social equity and economic viability, these initiatives create a lasting solution to benefit both current and future generations. Sustainability is more than just a word—it’s a necessity for the planet. By working together, we can create a world where human progress and environmental stewardship and sustaina-bility go hand in hand.
Environmentalist, email- nmunall@yahoo.in