Events of CSEC
Guwahati/Patna, 6 August 2025: The Centre for Studies on Environment and Climate (CSEC) at Asian Development Research Institute (ADRI), Patna, Bihar, and the EIACP PC Hub at Assam Science Technology and Environment Council (ASTEC), Guwahati, have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen long-term cooperation in environmental research, capacity building, and sustainable development.
The MoU was signed in the premises of ASTEC, Guwahati on 6 August 2025. The agreement was signed by Dr. Mousumi Gupta, Research Lead & EIACP Coordinator, CSEC, ADRI, and Shree Saptarshee Bhattacharjee, Head (In-Charge), Environment Division & EIACP Coordinator, ASTEC, under the guidance of Dr. Jaideep Baruah, Director, Science and Technology Department, ASTEC. The event was attended by Dr. Sunil Kumar Gupta EIACP Programee Officer, ADRI and Dr. Manisha Sarmah, EIACP Programme Officer, ASTEC, Assam, as witnesses.
During the event, Dr. Mousumi Gupta also spoke about the rich cultural heritage of Bihar, particularly the traditional art forms that have been an integral part of the region’s identity. She highlighted Sikki art, Tikuli art, and Madhubani art as examples of Bihar’s rich artistic culture that needs to be promoted beyond the state. These art forms, which are centuries-old, not only represent the craftsmanship and creativity of Bihar but also reflect its rich cultural history and traditions. Dr. Gupta emphasized the need to promote and preserve these regional arts in North India and across the country, helping to bring greater recognition and opportunities for artists.
Following the signing ceremony, Dr. Mousumi Gupta presented the work of ADRI and the EIACP Centre in Bihar, highlighting significant research initiatives, including studies on indoor air pollution and its linkage to women’s lung cancer, along with ongoing projects focused on climate change adaptation, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable livelihoods.
Under this non-financial, five-year MoU, both institutions will collaborate on a range of initiatives, including joint research in climate change, biodiversity, and sustainable rural livelihoods. The collaboration will also involve institutional capacity building, with joint training, workshops, and skill development programmes, alongside promoting awareness generation and the exchange of knowledge on environmental pollution and biodiversity.
In addition, MoU will facilitate providing internship opportunities for postgraduate students and other interns through academic exchange programmes. The partnership will also promote projects in biodiversity assessments, green audits, waste management, and policy advocacy to contribute to rural development and environmental resilience.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Mousumi Gupta said, “This partnership with ASTEC will enable us to combine our regional expertise, research capabilities, and community outreach to create impactful and sustainable environmental solutions for the eastern and northeastern regions of India. Additionally, we aim to promote Bihar’s rich cultural heritage, including our traditional art forms, to North India and beyond, creating a broader platform for the artists.” Mr. Saptarshee Bhattacharjee added, “Collaboration between Assam and Bihar’s EIACP centres will not only strengthen the knowledge base but also accelerate action on pressing environmental challenges.”
The MoU reflects the shared commitment of both ADRI and ASTEC to advance environmental sustainability, foster cultural preservation, and contribute to regional development through research and innovation.