Third Pole Future: Balipara Foundation to Host 14th Eastern Himalayan Naturenomics Forum
The Balipara Foundation hosts the 14th EHNF in Guwahati from Oct 30, focusing on the future of the Third Pole and the Himsagar.
Guwahati is set to become the epicenter of ecological dialogue as the Balipara Foundation organizes the Eastern Himalayan Naturenomics Forum (EHNF) from October 30 to November 3. This 14th edition of the forum aims to tackle the critical intersection of sustainable development and ecological conservation in one of the world's most sensitive regions.
Centred on the evocative theme “Future of the Third Pole and the Himsagar (Eastern Himalaya),” the five-day event will assemble a diverse global cohort. The guest list includes international experts, researchers, policymakers, academics, conservation practitioners, entrepreneurs, and community representatives, all converging to chart a resilient, nature-positive path for the region.
A Journey Across Five Institutions
In a unique organizational approach, the forum will not be confined to a single venue. Instead, it will travel across five prominent educational institutions in Guwahati, with each location hosting a specific thematic pillar:
- October 30: The journey begins at the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), focusing on ‘Communities, Culture, and Indigenous Futures’.
- October 31: The discussion shifts to Cotton University to explore ‘Forests and Biodiversity’.
- November 1: IIT Guwahati will host sessions dedicated to ‘Water and Energy’.
- November 2: Gauhati University will lead the conversation on ‘Sustainable Land Futures’.
- November 3: The forum concludes at Assam Royal Global University with a focus on ‘Green Tech, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship’.
Global Expertise and Distinguished Guests
The EHNF is drawing attention from across the globe, with participants expected from Japan, Bhutan, Nepal, Myanmar, Thailand, the United States, and New Zealand. Notable contributions will come from the Japanese delegation, featuring faculty from Kyushu University and Kagawa University.
The forum will also benefit from the insights of world-renowned specialists, including:
- Dr. Meg Lowman: Famously known as ‘Canopy Meg’ for her groundbreaking research in forest canopies.
- Heidi Riddle: An Asian elephant conservation expert and Chair of the IUCN SSC Asian Elephant Specialist Group.
Additionally, representatives from the Asian Institute of Technology in Thailand and the Red Panda Network in Nepal will join the deliberations.
Bridging Knowledge and Action
Beyond high-level talks, the forum is designed to be a bridge between scientific research and indigenous wisdom. The discussions will delve deep into river basin resilience, community-led stewardship, clean energy, and sustainable land management.
Empowering the Youth
A significant highlight of the event is the integration of the academic community. Students from schools, colleges, and universities across Northeast India will have the rare opportunity to interact directly with decision-makers and scientists, fostering a new generation of conservationists.
From Dialogue to Policy
The EHNF is not merely a talking shop; it is designed to produce results. By bringing together the private sector, government representatives, and civil society, the forum aims to translate complex research and stakeholder feedback into actionable policy recommendations. The ultimate goal is to strengthen ecological resilience while ensuring sustainable livelihoods for the people of the Eastern Himalaya.