NU hosts workshop on medicinal plants, traditional knowledge

DIMAPUR — The Department of Forestry, Nagaland University (NU), organised a two-day science academy lecture workshop titled ‘Traditional knowledge, medicinal plants, and biodiversity conservation’ on March 13 and the 14th at NU Lumami campus, Zunheboto.

The workshop, aimed at exploring the intersection of traditional knowledge, medicinal plants, and biodiversity conservation, brought together resource persons and participants from various institutions across Nagaland, the university stated in an update.

Funded by the Indian Academy of Science, Indian National Science Academy and the National Science Academy, the workshop marked a significant step towards promoting scientific discourse and interdisciplinary collaboration in the realm of forestry and environmental conservation.

Resource persons who attended the event included Prof. RR Rao and Prof. DJ Bagya Raj from the Indian Academy of Science, along with Dr. R Murugeswaran, Deputy Advisor at the National Medicinal Plant Board, Ministry of Ayush,

Dr. Agastin Simiyon Theodar, recipient of the INSA Teacher Award, also contributed invaluable insights through his lectures.

The inaugural address was delivered by Prof. Jagadish Kumar Patnaik, Vice-Chancellor of Nagaland University, setting the tone for the workshop's deliberations.

Dr. G. Bupesh, the course coordinator, emphasised on the importance of the workshop's theme in the context of contemporary environmental challenges.

Dr. RR Rao provided an overview of the workshop's objectives and highlighted the pivotal role played by the Indian Academy of Sciences in advancing scientific research and education.

Dr. Mayur Mousoom Phukan concluded the event with a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all participants, organisers and sponsors for their contributions in making the workshop a resounding success.

“This workshop marked a significant milestone as it was the first major academic event organised by Nagaland University's Department of Forestry since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The participation of students, faculty, and teachers from various colleges across Nagaland underscores the region's commitment to fostering scientific inquiry and environmental stewardship,” it stated.

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