Imphal: A thirteen-member delegation from Manipur has recently concluded a significant educational visit to the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) in Nepal. The team comprised journalists alongside officials from the Directorate of Environment and Climate Change, marking a collaborative effort to bolster climate change awareness.
The five-day immersive program, spanning from May 1st to 6th, was specifically designed to equip media professionals with enhanced skills in reporting on the multifaceted challenges posed by climate change. This initiative underscores the growing recognition of the media’s pivotal position in disseminating crucial information and fostering public understanding of environmental issues.
T Brajakumar, the Director of the Directorate of Environment and Climate Change, articulated the vital role of the media as key stakeholders in effectively addressing the far-reaching impacts of climate change. He further highlighted the directorate’s ongoing commitment to promoting informed reporting through initiatives such as media fellowships, which have been awarded since 2017, and regular monthly seminars tailored for journalists covering environmental beats.
During their time at ICIMOD, the Manipur delegation engaged directly with the center’s communication specialists. These experts shared valuable techniques aimed at simplifying complex scientific data related to climate change, enabling journalists to effectively communicate these critical issues to a wider audience in an easily understandable manner.
The exposure trip also included practical field visits, allowing the delegation to observe tangible climate adaptation projects in action. A particularly impactful visit was to Bhagwate Village in Namobuddha Municipality-2, where the team witnessed the successful rejuvenation of a previously dwindling spring. This revival was attributed to ICIMOD’s interventions in collaboration with local governance, addressing factors such as rainfall variability, groundwater depletion, and the neglect of traditional water conservation methods, as indicated by ICIMOD’s research.
Furthermore, the delegation visited Patan Durbar Square, an area currently grappling with the increasing challenge of diminishing natural springs. This provided a comparative perspective on the diverse climate-related issues affecting different regions.
Emphasizing the significance of international collaboration in tackling the global crisis of climate change, Director Brajakumar noted that the exposure visit to ICIMOD offered invaluable insights and knowledge. He expressed optimism that the learnings from this cross-border exchange would be effectively integrated into climate change reporting practices within Manipur, ultimately contributing to greater public awareness and informed action.
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