Letters to The EDITOR: Rare flower found in Arunachal after 158 years

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Rare flower found in Arunachal after 158 years

A rare Himalayan flowering plant, Cyananthus hookeri, has been rediscovered in Arunachal Pradesh after 158 years. Scientists from the Botanical Survey of India found the endangered species in Tawang district during a botanical survey, marking its first recorded presence in the state and bringing new hope for biodiversity conservation.

The rediscovery of Cyananthus hookeri is an important achievement for Indian science and nature conservation. The flower was last recorded in India more than 150 years ago. Since then, there had been no confirmed sightings, and many believed that the plant had become extremely rare in the country.

The plant was recently found by scientists from the Botanical Survey of India (BSI) during a field survey in the high-altitude region of Tawang district in Arunachal Pradesh. This is the first time the species has been officially recorded in the state. The discovery has excited botanists and environmentalists because it proves that the Eastern Himalayas continue to be home to many rare and unique plant species.

Cyananthus hookeri is a small flowering plant that is known for its bright blue, bell-shaped flowers. It grows naturally in rocky mountain slopes and alpine meadows at high altitudes where the weather is cold throughout the year. These flowers bloom only for a short period, making them difficult to spot. Their beauty and rarity make them one of the special plants of the Himalayan region.

Scientists believe that fewer than 50 mature plants survive in India. This makes the species highly endangered. Such a small population increases the risk of extinction because even small changes in the environment can affect its survival.

Scientists believe that the rediscovery of this flower highlights the rich biodiversity of the Eastern Himalayas. The region is known as one of the world's biodiversity hotspots because it supports thousands of plant and animal species, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth. The discovery also shows that there is still much to learn about the forests and mountains of Northeast India.

Experts have stressed the need to protect the habitat where Cyananthus hookeri was found. They have suggested regular monitoring of the plant, scientific research, and conservation programmes to increase its population. Local communities can also help by protecting forests and avoiding activities that damage the natural environment. Public awareness about rare plants is equally important because people are more likely to protect species they understand and value.

The rediscovery of Cyananthus hookeri after 158 years is more than just the return of a rare flower. It is a reminder that nature still holds many hidden treasures. The discovery brings hope for scientists and conservationists while emphasising the critical need to protect the fragile ecosystems of the Himalayas. With proper conservation, research, and public support, this beautiful blue flower can continue to bloom for generations to come.

Anirushta Saha

Guwahati

Humans for humanity

Today, we witness the heartbreaking images of floods in Assam. Every year the mighty Brahmaputra and its tributaries bring both sustenance and challenges to this beautiful land. This year too, several parts of the state, including Sivasagar and Charaideo, are grappling with a devastating situation. At this moment, the music legends Dr Bhupen Hazarika and Zubeen Garg's memorable words, 'Humans exist for humanity, if only we care a little,' have echoed across the state. In the aftermath of this year's devastating floods in Upper Assam, people choose to stand beside one another, sustaining humanity. In village after village, neighbours are helping each other. Volunteers travel long distances with relief goods to give to strangers. The community shared whatever they had with families who had lost everything. Wherever eyes go, one sees only vehicles after vehicles packed with relief materials lining the road. The only aim of the people is to reach those affected and distribute food, medicines, drinking water, baby food, sanitary products, and other essentials, either on the roadside or at their doorsteps. by wading through waist-deep floodwaters. Truly, these acts cannot prevent floods, which have left deep scars on flood-ravaged people. But relief items will help them recover to some extent. The need now is to ensure that this spirit of solidarity continues after the flood waters recede and remain alive even in its darkest moments. One's compassion should inspire others not only in relief efforts but also in long-term action to reduce risk. So, it is imperative to strengthen the spirit of oneness and build a long, resilient future for the people. In this critical hour, let's come forward to prove that Assam is at its strongest not when its people stand apart, but when they stand together.

Iqbal Saikia,

Guwahati

Mutual respect among health workers

Through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, I would like to highlight an important issue concerning equality and mutual respect among NHM employees and regular government employees in Assam's healthcare system.

NHM and regular employees work together in the same hospitals, PHCs, CHCs, sub-centres and other health institutions. They serve the same patients, perform their assigned duties, implement health programmes and face similar workplace challenges. Therefore, there should never be any discrimination, disrespect or feeling of superiority based on employment status.

Every employee contributes to the healthcare system according to his or her responsibilities, and every contribution deserves dignity and respect. Differences in service conditions may exist under government rules, but such differences should never create divisions among colleagues.

A healthy healthcare institution depends on teamwork, cooperation, humanity and mutual respect. NHM employees and regular employees are colleagues working towards the same goal-the well-being of the people.

Heramba Nath,

Hindumaizali, Kamrup