Itanagar, May 19: In recognition of her unwavering dedication to discovering and documenting the unique orchid species of Arunachal Pradesh, Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, Lt. General KT Parnaik (Retd.), presented the prestigious ‘Land of the Rising Sun’ plaque to Dr. Krishna Chowlu, Scientist In-Charge at the Botanical Survey of India, Arunachal Pradesh Regional Centre, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, at Raj Bhavan, Itanagar, today.
The Governor lauded Dr. Chowlu’s tireless efforts and scientific spirit in unveiling the rich floral diversity of the State, especially her remarkable work in identifying rare and exclusive orchid species.
Parnaik highlighted the exceptional significance of the exquisite orchids of Arunachal Pradesh. He remarked that these vibrant and delicate blooms are not just beautiful but they are living symbols of the State’s pristine natural heritage and ecological richness.
The Governor said that Arunachal Pradesh holds a special place in India’s biodiversity map, with nearly 50 orchid species found nowhere else in the world. These rare species, he noted, reflect the untouched and pure environment of the region, and their preservation and study are of great value to both scientific research and eco-tourism.
The Governor encouraged scientists and researchers to continue exploring and connecting with nature’s bounty, reminding them that such work strengthens our understanding of the environment and opens doors for sustainable development. He also called upon the people, especially the youth, to take pride in this natural wealth and see it as a unique opportunity to contribute to biodiversity conservation and ecological innovation.
The Governor emphasized the importance of exploring, conserving, and promoting orchids, urging educational institutions to take the lead in this initiative. He said that engaging students in such efforts would not only deepen their understanding of biodiversity but also foster a sense of responsibility and appreciation for the rich natural heritage of their region.
By involving young minds in the study and preservation of these exquisite flowers, the Governor expressed hope that a new generation of environmentally conscious citizens would emerge, who would value and protect the fragile beauty of nature.
The Governor urged the present generation to inspire a new generation of environmental stewards, who not only protect this rich floral legacy but also transform it into a source of sustainable livelihood, learning, and global recognition. Arunachal Pradesh is not just a land of rising sun but also is a land of rising opportunities, he said.
Dr. Chowlu informed the Governor that there are 650 species of orchids in the State, which is the highest in India. 50 orchids are exclusively found in Arunachal Pradesh.
Dr. Chowlu, a specialist in Angiosperm taxonomy with a focus on the Orchidaceae family, is renowned for her contributions to plant discovery in Arunachal Pradesh. She discovered Impatiens dorjeekhanduii in Tawang (2017), named in honour of former Chief Minister Dorjee Khandu, and more recently identified a unique leafless orchid, Gastrodia lohitensis, in Lohit district (2024), which survives without sunlight.
On the occasion, Dr. Chowlu also presented her book, Orchids of Arunachal Pradesh, to the Governor. 

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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