CSIR‑CCMB’s LaCONES Leads Genomic‑Based Conservation Workshop on Eastern Ghats Biodiversity

Workshop Overview The CSIR‑CCMB organised a four‑day workshop at its LaCONES campus. The event brought together scientists, students, NGOs and forest officials to discuss how Eastern Ghats can be studied using modern genomic tools and landscape ecology. Key Developments Presentation of eDNA surveys that uncovered a previously undocumented diversity of insects, fishes, reptiles, birds, mammals and microbes. Demonstration of high‑throughput sequencing for population genetics and phylogeography. Integration of genomic data with remote‑sensing based habitat mapping, land‑use change analysis and connectivity modelling. Collaborative talks from IIHS Bengaluru, IISER Tirupati and NCBS Bengaluru covering freshwater ecology, pollination biology, ancient DNA and conservation genomics. Important Facts • The Eastern Ghats are older than the Western Ghats and host many endemic species, yet systematic biodiversity documentation is scant. • Habitat loss, fragmentation and climate change are accelerating threats, making rapid assessment tools like eDNA crucial. • The workshop emphasized a multidisciplinary approach: conservation genomics , species interaction studies, and spatial analysis of land‑use patterns. UPSC Relevance Understanding the synergy between genetics and ecology is vital for GS‑3 (Science & Technology) questions on biodiversity conservation, climate change impacts, and the role of technology in policy implementation. The Eastern Ghats case illustrates challenges in managing fragmented ecosystems, a topic that also appears in GS‑1 (Geography) under physical features and environmental concerns. Moreover, the involvement of multiple ministries and forest departments highlights inter‑agency coordination, relevant to GS‑2 (Polity) and GS‑4 (Ethics) discussions on sustainable development. Way Forward • Expand a network of field‑based genomics labs across the Eastern Ghats to enable real‑time eDNA monitoring. • Integrate genomic datasets with the National Biodiversity Authority’s species‑level action plans. • Use the workshop’s collaborative model to formulate region‑specific conservation policies, ensuring habitat connectivity and climate‑resilient management. • Train early‑career researchers in high‑throughput sequencing and bioinformatics to build indigenous capacity.