The workshop was inaugurated by Mrs. Bibijan of Bibi Fathima SHG, from Theertha village of Dharwad District by grinding leaves of medicinal plants in the mortar. Mr. Govardhan Singh M J, Deputy Conservator of Forests, Karnataka Biodiversity Board, Govt. of Karnataka was the guest of honour. Sr. Dr. Venissa A.C, Principal, St Agnes College (Autonomous) Mangaluru, presided over the inaugural ceremony. Sr. Carmel Rita, The Administrator of St. Agnes College, graced the inauguration function with her presence. Welcome address and background of the workshop was given by Dr. Soniya Marsi Lobo, Convenor of National workshop. Followed by the felicitation of Mrs Bibijan, by the workshop organizer for winning UNDP Equator prize 2025 for her Bibi Fathima SHG and their remarkable achievement in the field of biodiversity conservation through community seed bank, promoting millets and women empowerment. Mrs Bibijan in her inaugural address mentioned that Bibi Fathima self help group was formed by 15 women in 2018, the SHG has introduced millet-based mixed cropping on rain fed farms, empowered women, promoted climate-resilient farming systems, practiced livestock rearing and horticulture, and popularized millets at the village level. This work has simultaneously ensured both nutritional security and income stability. The Bibi Fatima SHG has prioritized the conservation of indigenous crop varieties that fare better during climate extremes.
On this occasion of national workshop B.Sc Botany students’ community, “Chiguru” was inaugurated by the guest of honour, Mr. Govardhan Singh M J. In his speech he emphasized on the need for conservation of biodiversity and food quality. Sr. Dr. Venissa AC, President of Workshop emphasized on the need for conservation of medicinal plants and traditional knowledge. All the guests in the dais were felicitated Mementos and floral sapling as a token of respect and appreciation. Dr. Nivya VM proposed vote of thanks.
The Valedictory Session of the National Workshop on Folk and Flora – tradition and conservation marked the successful conclusion of a dynamic and insightful event that brought together leading experts, researchers, academicians and students from Karnataka and Kerala. The workshop aimed to foster dialogue and encourage collaborative efforts to conserve and sustainably manage biodiversity and traditional medicine system. Dr. Ita DSouza, Associate Professor of Chemistry, St. Agnes College, Mangaluru, was the Chief guest. Dr. DSouza emphasized the importance of green chemistry, highlighting its vital role in promoting sustainable development and minimizing environmental impact. She stressed the need for adopting chemical processes and technologies that reduce or eliminate the use and generation of hazardous substances. Guest of honour, Dr. Vishala B.K, Chief Librarian, St. Agnes College Mangaluru, encouraged student participants to apply the knowledge they gathered through workshop and put it into practice and to learn modern tools and techniques to excel in academics and in carrier. Sr. Dr. Roopa Rodrigues, The Vice Principal of St. Agnes College graced the valedictory function with her presence.
