ITANAGAR, 11 Jan: the regional Ayurveda Research Institute in Itanagar recently hosted a groundbreaking national seminar titled ‘Exploration of Phytodiversity of Medicinal Values of Eastern Himalayas: Focus on Mapping & Scientific validation.’ Held at the Dorjee Khandu State Convention Center, the event marked a important step toward understanding and preserving the region’s unparalleled medicinal biodiversity.
Organized under the AYUSH ministry, the seminar brought together a diverse group of researchers, academicians, and policymakers. Their shared goal? To explore the untapped potential of the eastern Himalayas’ medicinal plants, both for pharmacological advancements and traditional healing practices.
The event was inaugurated by Health Commissioner Pawan Kumar Sain and Prof Vaidya Rabinarayan Acharya, Director General of the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS). Both emphasized the critical need to bridge traditional knowledge with modern scientific methods. As Sain noted, “Integrating age-old wisdom with cutting-edge research is key to unlocking the global potential of our natural resources.”
Dr. Robindra Teron, Director of the North Eastern Institute of Ayurveda & Folk Medicine Research, and Dr. Narayanam Srikanth, Deputy Director General of CCRAS, also addressed the audience. They highlighted the importance of conservation efforts and the role of medico-ethno botanical surveys in safeguarding the region’s unique flora.
The seminar featured two technical sessions, delving into topics like the conservation of rare medicinal plants, ethnic dietary practices, and the mapping of medicinal flora across Arunachal Pradesh’s forest divisions. Esteemed experts, including Prof Pulok Kumar Mukherjee from Jadavpur University and Prof Hui Tag from Rajiv gandhi Central University, shared their insights, enriching the discussions with their expertise.
A recurring theme throughout the event was the importance of community engagement. Health Commissioner Sain stressed that grassroots involvement is crucial for prosperous environmental initiatives. “Local communities hold generations of knowledge about plants and their benefits,” he said. “We must tap into this wisdom to create enduring solutions.”
Sain proposed a two-pronged approach: first, identifying and mapping plants with potential benefits, and second, conducting rigorous scientific validation. This strategy, he argued, would ensure sustainable growth while benefiting both the people and the state.
The seminar also included a lively panel discussion, where participants exchanged ideas with dignitaries on preserving endangered species and documenting indigenous knowledge. The conversation underscored the importance of protecting cultural heritage by safeguarding traditional medicinal practices and celebrating ethnic dietary traditions, which contribute significantly to overall wellness.
The eastern Himalayas, with their awe-inspiring biodiversity, continue to captivate scientists and researchers alike. This seminar served as a reminder of the urgent need to blend indigenous practices with modern research.By doing so, Arunachal Pradesh can pave the way for sustainable development, ensuring that its natural treasures are preserved for generations to come.
