Eden of Elixirs: Cultivating a Medicinal Legacy for Future Generations

Dr. Mahesh Kumar Dadhich emphasizes the urgency of conserving medicinal plant heritage at MRIIRS's 'Eden of Elixirs.' The garden fosters research, education, and community collaboration, showcasing over 130 plant species. It's a national model supporting sustainable healthcare, rural empowerment, and aligns with key UN Sustainable Development Goals.

In Faridabad, Dr. Mahesh Kumar Dadhich, CEO of the National Medicinal Plants Board, Ministry of AYUSH, highlighted the critical importance of conserving medicinal plant heritage at the inauguration of a unique garden, 'Eden of Elixirs,' at Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies (MRIIRS). He stressed that the medicinal value found in vegetables and fruits is crucial to our health, warning that failure to preserve these plants could compromise future nutrition and wellness.

Designed by the Manav Rachna Centre for Medicinal Plant Pathology, this garden is supported by the National Medicinal Plants Board. Dr. Nidhi Didwania, the Director, described it as a dynamic educational resource where students and researchers engage with nature. Featuring over 130 species, including Ashwagandha, Brahmi, and Tulsi, the garden is an interactive 'living lab' aimed at sustainable healthcare and propagation of medicinal plant use.

The initiative also aims to empower local farmers by providing quality planting material. Dr. Dadhich lauded these community-driven efforts, advocating for similar initiatives nationwide, and discussed future plans to expand such gardens to schools. Launching a book on medicinal plants, the event underscored MRIIRS's commitment to sustainable development aligned with key UN goals.

(With inputs from agencies.)