Nefocus.com successfully organized the Brahmaputra Conclave on the theme Brahmaputra: Balancing Development and Ecology” at the Assam Water Centre, Basistha. The event brought together experts, administrators, scientists, and media professionals to deliberate on sustainable approaches to managing the Brahmaputra River and its ecosystem.
The conclave highlighted key issues such as green water transport, wetland restoration, community awareness, international cooperation, research, and nature-based river management. A notable discussion point was the adoption of Bhutan’s **Gross National Happiness model** as a guiding principle for sustainable hydropower development in Assam.
In the first panel, speakers included Swapnanil Baruah (Retired Administrative Officer), Gaurav Talukdar (Spokesperson, IIT Delhi), and Dr. S.S. Singh (Environmental Scientist, Central Ground Water Board), who discussed the challenges and opportunities in achieving ecological balance amid development.
The second panel featured **Pradipta Pran Chang Kakoti (Executive President, North East India Water Forum), Partha J. Das (Environmental Scientist, Aaranyak), and Mandira Burhagohain (Assam State Disaster Management Authority), focusing on how traditional ecological practices and innovation can drive sustainable development.
The conclave saw participation from representatives of the **Water Resources Department, Fremaa, Inland Water Transport Department, Assam Engineering College, private organisations, and journalists.
Speaking on behalf of the organisers, Sangeeta Saikia, Editor of Nefocus, stated that efforts are ongoing from both government and private sectors, along with individuals, to strike a balance between development and ecological preservation.
NeFocus has previously undertaken initiatives like the Hoolock Gibbon Conservation Campaign and hosted a Climate Change Conclave to raise awareness about environmental issues.
The Brahmaputra Conclave was organised in collaboration with FREMAA, supported by State Bank of India as the sponsor, and Aaranyak as the knowledge partner.
