Shri Vithalrao Joshi Charities Trust’s English Medium School & Junior College of Science, Sawarde, organised an informative and enriching session on “Ethno-Medico-Botany” for students. The session was conducted by Dr. Anuradha Upadhye, Retired Scientist, Agharkar Research Institute, Pune, who introduced students to the fascinating relationship between plants, people and culture and the traditional use of natural resources by local and tribal communities. Students explored the multidisciplinary dimensions of ethnobotany, including ecology, taxonomy, anthropology, pharmacology, nutrition, conservation and sustainable development. The valuable contributions of Padma Shri Dr. E. K. Janaki Ammal and Dr. Sudhanshu Kumar Jain were highlighted. Interesting examples of plants such as Palas (Butea monosperma), Acanthus ilicifolius and Rubia cordifolia helped students understand their medicinal, cultural and commercial significance. Students were also introduced to modern techniques such as TLC, HPLC and phytochemical analysis, connecting traditional knowledge with contemporary scientific research. The session further highlighted initiatives like the Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL) and Biodiversity Registers, emphasising the importance of documenting traditional knowledge, conserving biodiversity and promoting the sustainable use of plant resources. A meaningful learning experience that connected traditional wisdom with modern science and inspired students to value and conserve our rich natural heritage!
