Khandapada: The United Nations last year had adopted a resolution declaring May 20 as World Bee Day to draw the attention of people to the importance of preserving bees and other pollinators.
On the eve of observance of such an important occasion, an awareness camp was organised at Kantilo under this block in Nayagarh district under the guidance of noted environmentalist Antaryami Sahoo, popularly addressed as ‘Gachha Sir’ or Tree Teacher.
“Apart from human beings, our beautiful earth nourishes flora and fauna, aquatic animals, birds, insects, reptiles, rivers, lakes, oceans, mountains and other natural creations. Maintaining equilibrium between all these elements is all about protection of environment. Erosion or shrinking of numbers in any of these elements would adversely affect the balance of the earth,” said the experts who participated in the camp.
Speaking on the occasion, Sahoo said though people are concerned for the preservation of forest and protection of natural resources, often tiny living species that play a crucial role in the survival of this beautiful planet don’t get the required attention.
One such species is honey bee. It plays an important role in turning the flowers into fruits. But people often kill them cruelly to collect honey from the beehives, Sahoo added.
“We should remember that existence of life would be difficult without the plant kingdom and bees are essential for its survival,” the environmentalist said.
Sahoo urged people to show concern towards safety of honey bees and other pollinators including butterflies and other bee species.
Despite the phenomenal progress of medical science, people still depend upon bees to get honey which is required for the good health of human beings, said others who attended the camp.
Lecturer Ishwar Chandra Dash, headmaster Sanatan Mohanty, retired agriculture officer Narayan Dalei and other senior citizens were among those who attended the awareness camp.
