An interactive session in Guwahati has highlighted the transformative role of modern optical technologies in biodiversity and wildlife conservation, stressing the need for interdisciplinary collaboration and community participation to address pressing environmental challenges. The event, titled “Scope of Optical Engineering in Biodiversity and Wildlife Conservation in North East India”, was organised by Aaranyak under its Environment Education and Capacity Building Division (EECBD) on December 22 at the organisation’s administrative office. Delivering the keynote, Dr Iftak Hussain, a scientist at Singapore’s Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), explained how optical engineering, artificial intelligence, and smartphone-based technologies can support environmental monitoring, particularly in resource-limited settings. A native of Dergaon in Assam’s Golaghat district, Dr Hussain shared his scientific journey and research experiences with Aaranyak team members and students.
He is a recipient of the Gandhian Young Technological Innovation (GYTI) Award 2017, conferred by then President Ram Nath Kovind, for his contributions to science and technology. Dr Hussain emphasised the growing potential of smartphones as accessible tools, noting that the integration of optics and AI could transform conservation practices and environmental education. He also underscored the importance of STEM education in bridging classroom learning with real-world applications, enhancing digital literacy, and preparing students for technology-driven careers while supporting sustainability goals.
In his inaugural address, Jayanta Kumar Pathak, Assistant Director and Head (In-charge) of EECBD, Aaranyak, stressed the need to expose students and practitioners to low-cost, effective technologies to tackle environmental challenges in Northeast India. The welcome address was delivered by Dr Bibhuti Prasad Lahkar, Deputy Executive Director of Aaranyak, while the session was coordinated and moderated by Tikendrajit Gogoi, Project Officer of EECBD. The programme reinforced the importance of innovative technologies and interdisciplinary approaches in strengthening conservation science and environmental education in the region.