[Apasi Linggi and Kara Gambo]
Itanagar, January 11: The Regional Institute of Ayurveda, Itanagar, on Saturday organized a national seminar titled ‘Exploring medicinal plant diversity of eastern Himalayas: Focus on mapping and scientific validation’ at Dorje Khandu State Convention Center here.
The event, organized under the auspices of the Ministry of AYUSH, brought together researchers, academicians and policy makers to discuss the region’s rich medicinal biodiversity and its potential for pharmacological and traditional applications.
The seminar was inaugurated by Health Commissioner Pawan Kumar Sane and Central Council for Ayurvedic Scientific Research (CCRAS) Director General Prof. Vaidya Ravinarayan Acharya.
He emphasized the need to integrate traditional knowledge with modern scientific methodologies for global recognition and utilization.
Dr. Robindra Theron, Director, Pasighat-based Northeastern Institute of Ayurveda and Folk Medicine Research, and Dr. Narayanam Srikanth, Deputy Director, CCRAS, also spoke at the gathering, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts and medical ethnicity. He emphasized the importance of plant research. Eastern Himalaya region.
The event featured two technical sessions on topics ranging from conservation of rare medicinal plants to ethnic diets and mapping of medicinal flora in forest patches of Arunachal Pradesh.
Experts such as Professor Purok Kumar Mukherjee of Jadavpur University and Professor Hoi Tag of Rajiv Gandhi Central University shared their insights.
Health Commissioner Thane emphasized the importance of engaging grassroots communities in environmental efforts, rather than relying solely on classroom-style sessions and PowerPoint presentations.
Speaking during the event, Thane highlighted the valuable knowledge that local people have about plants and the benefits they have gained through generations of living in harmony with the environment.
He proposed a two-step approach. First, plants with potential benefits are mapped and then scientific validation is carried out to ensure sustainable development that benefits both people and nations.
A panel discussion was held where participants were able to interact with senior officials and discuss sustainable strategies for the conservation of endangered species and documentation of indigenous knowledge.
The seminar also focused on the importance of preserving cultural heritage by preserving traditional medical practices, highlighting ethnic dietary habits and highlighting their contribution to health. The eastern Himalayas, with its breathtaking biodiversity, continues to inspire scientific exploration. The seminar reiterated the need to blend indigenous practices and modern research to promote sustainable development in Arunachal.