12-10-2025:Address by Hon’ble Governor at the Valedictory Session of the 24th Annual Conference of the Indian Association of Social Science Institutions (IASSI)
Jai Hind!
I am truly delighted to be present amidst this distinguished gathering of scholars and intellectuals at the valedictory session of this meaningful and insightful conference, organized in the serene valleys of the sacred land of Uttarakhand — our Devbhoomi.
At the outset, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Doon University and the Indian Association of Social Science Institutions (IASSI) for successfully organizing this relevant and deeply significant three-day conference.
Today, the entire world stands at a crossroads — in search of new directions and lasting solutions. Climate change, environmental imbalance, and unequal development have become existential challenges to human civilization. In such times, the theme of this conference — “Climate Change, Environmental Challenges, Urbanization, Sustainable Development and Livelihood Enhancement” — is not merely an academic discussion but a powerful call for shared responsibility, awareness, and collective consciousness.
These vital themes compel us to reflect on how mindful we are of our duties towards Mother Earth amid our pursuit of progress. They inspire us to envision a future where development and environment are not adversaries, but allies.
It is also deeply symbolic that this conference is being held in Devbhoomi, a land cradled by the Himalayas — where rivers recite the hymns of the Vedas, forests breathe the essence of life, and every mountain stands as a testament to courage, compassion, and spirituality. This sacred land reminds us that harmony between nature and culture is the true path to sustainable development.
Harmony with nature has been the cornerstone of Indian civilization. Our ancient wisdom revered Earth as Bhumi Mata (Mother Earth), water as the nectar of life, and forests as the foundation of existence. Thousands of years ago, our sages proclaimed “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” — the world is one family. This philosophy holds even greater relevance in today’s fragmented global order.
Esteemed scholars,
The Himalayas are not merely a geographical entity; they are the spiritual, cultural, and ecological backbone of India. They have nurtured our civilization, sustained our rivers, and infused our consciousness with spirituality.
Our rivers are not just water streams; they are lifelines — nurturing faith, agriculture, and livelihoods of millions. When rivers are polluted or glaciers melt, it is not just the environment that suffers — it is our culture, economy, and very continuity of existence that is threatened.
In recent years, landslides, flash floods, and extreme weather events across the country have served as urgent reminders that if we fail to enhance our sensitivity towards nature’s balance, the entire nation will bear the cost. When nature is disturbed, development, security, and humanity — all are imperiled.
Climate change today is not merely a scientific concern — it is a question of human survival. Unchecked industrialization, unplanned urbanization, reckless deforestation, and overexploitation of natural resources are among its primary causes.
We are witnessing rising temperatures, unpredictable rainfall, melting glaciers, declining crop productivity, and the spread of vector-borne diseases. Let us remember — the Earth can meet everyone’s needs, but not a single person’s greed. True progress cannot come from exploiting nature — it can only come from respecting it.
To face this crisis, policies and technology alone are not enough. We must adopt sustainable lifestyles, ensure community participation, and embed compassion for nature at the heart of our policy-making.
For our hill states, environmental challenges are even more fragile and complex — including landslides, soil erosion, river degradation, and loss of wildlife habitats. Addressing these issues requires three interconnected pillars: local community participation, integration of scientific and traditional knowledge, and environmental education and awareness.
We must empower villages and local bodies to become partners in environmental management. The fusion of ancient ecological wisdom with modern science is the real solution. Environmental consciousness should not just be a subject in books — it must become a way of life.
Friends,
Urbanization drives economic growth, but unplanned urbanization breeds inequality, pollution, and resource depletion. Cities that are not environmentally friendly end up threatening the well-being of their own citizens.
We must therefore envision “Green Cities” alongside “Smart Cities” — cities where buildings are energy-efficient, transportation is clean, and green cover is ample. Nature-inclusive urban planning must become the model of future India.
Sustainable development is not just about economic advancement; it is about balance — meeting the needs of the present without compromising the rights of future generations.
For a state like Uttarakhand, where nature itself forms the axis of the economy, Green Growth, Eco-Tourism, Organic Farming, and Renewable Energy must become our priorities. Our aim should be Nature Positive Development — a model where progress strengthens, rather than harms, the environment.
Dear scholars,
Development remains incomplete until it reaches the last person in society. True development provides not only prosperity but also dignity, security, and stability.
Livelihood enhancement is not merely about creating jobs — it is about empowering communities. Through sustainable employment, self-reliance, women’s empowerment, and skill development, we can address issues like migration in hill regions. Every village in Uttarakhand is not just a settlement — it is a living symbol of culture, tradition, and human dignity.
Respected delegates,
The conservation of the Himalayas is not just the responsibility of Uttarakhand — it is the duty of the entire nation. This region is the cradle of India’s water security, biodiversity, and cultural heritage. Every tree, every spring, and every particle of ice here forms the foundation of our future generations’ survival.
To safeguard the Himalayan ecosystem, we must integrate scientific research, policy innovation, community participation, and youthful energy.
I am delighted to see the large number of young scholars and students participating in this conference. They are not only learners of the future — they are builders of the future. Their ideas, research, and compassion will shape a greener, prosperous, and self-reliant India.
This conference has indeed become a beautiful confluence of knowledge, dialogue, and policy reflection. I commend all participants and organizers for their deep and insightful contributions. I am confident that the deliberations held here will have a lasting policy impact and provide new direction for the sustainable development of the Himalayan region.
My dear friends,
Let us all pledge that we will not remain mere consumers of nature but become its guardians. Let us move forward with nature, for nature, and within nature.
May the coming generations be able to say — “Our ancestors did not just leave the Earth as they found it, but made it even more beautiful.”
With this spirit of hope and shared commitment, I once again congratulate all organizers, delegates, and scholars for the grand success of this conference and wish you all a bright and meaningful future.
Jai Hind!