With a view to dealing with challenges of development amid threats of climate change, a new way has been sorted out to work on a strategy in the State. In this connection, Environment Planning and Coordination Organisation (EPCO), Government of Madhya Pradesh and Energy Resources Institute (TERI) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) here on Thursday. As part of the MoU, a knowledge-management centre will be established in the State.

The MoU was exchanged between in-charge Principal Secretary OP Rawat and TERI director general and environmentalist RK Pachauri. On behalf of Madhya Pradesh, EPCO executive director Manohar Dube signed the MoU.

Under the MoU, a strong knowledge-based collaboration between EPCO and TERI will be established. It will help deal with the threat of climate change and challenges of development. This collaboration expects to result in robust scientific assessment and policy research in the State and will act as the foundation for informed decision-making in the face of risks due to climate change.

Dealing with the challenge of climate change also calls for a strong focus on public awareness and capacity creation among key stakeholders. This collaboration would seek to develop a vibrant knowledge environment in the State on the issues pertinent to climate change and sustainable development. Appropriate education and training will also be included in it. This MoU defines the framework of cooperation between the two organisations. The validity of the MoU will exist for three years from its execution.