Media Release

Mangaluru, Sep 10: Sacred groves, forests, rivers, and water bodies protected for generations through indigenous traditions hold valuable lessons for addressing today’s environmental challenges, experts observed at a national seminar organised by St Agnes College (Autonomous), Mangaluru.

The seminar, titled 'Sacred Landscapes: Ecological Sanctuaries of India’s Indigenous Heritage', was organised in association with the Karnataka Ecotourism Development Board on Thursday, September 10. It brought together academicians, environmentalists, wildlife experts, students, and nature enthusiasts to explore the close relationship between indigenous traditions, sacred landscapes, and ecological conservation.

Ravishankar, deputy conservator of forests for the Dakshina Kannada division, was the chief guest at the inaugural programme. Shalet Pinto, chairperson of the Karnataka Ecotourism Development Board, was the guest of honour, while Sr Dr Venissa A C, principal of St Agnes College, presided over the event.

Speaking on the theme 'Sacred Natural Landscapes of India', Prof Jayakara Bhandary highlighted the ecological, cultural, and spiritual significance of sacred natural spaces across the country. Sr Dr Doris D’Souza, former principal of Patna Women’s College, spoke on 'Nature as Sacred: Exploring the Conservation Tradition of Jharkhand', emphasising the critical role of indigenous communities and their traditional ecological knowledge in protecting regional biodiversity.

Wildlife expert Kamal Yadav from Charlie’s Rescue Centre conducted an engaging session on snakes, creating awareness about their ecological importance and encouraging responsible coexistence with wildlife.

A special focus of the seminar was the Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) Centre at St Agnes College, which seeks to promote the study, documentation, and dissemination of India’s indigenous knowledge traditions and their relevance to contemporary society.

The valedictory programme was attended by Prakash Naik, principal of Sharada Pre-University College, as the chief guest, and Vidhya Patali, dean of science at St Agnes College, as the guest of honour. The dignitaries appreciated the college’s initiative in promoting awareness about indigenous ecological knowledge and the conservation of sacred natural spaces.

The programme was convened by Dr Soniya Lobo, head of the department of botany, with the support of Dr Sabina D’Souza, IQAC coordinator, and Dr Vishala B K, coordinator of the Indian Knowledge Systems Centre.

The seminar concluded with a renewed call to recognise India’s sacred landscapes not merely as places of cultural significance, but as a living ecological heritage that demands proactive protection for future generations.