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ASIA SPEAKS NEWS SERVICE
Jammu 28 March: In a major push towards promoting awareness and conservation of medicinal plants, the Ministry of Ayush, Government of India has approved the establishment of 100 School Herbal Gardens across the Jammu Division at a cost of ₹53 lakh.
The project, sanctioned by the National Medicinal Plants Board under the Ministry, aims to develop herbal gardens in selected schools, with ten institutions to be covered in each district of the division. The schools have already been identified by the Directorate of School Education Jammu.
The proposal was recommended by the Directorate of Ayush, Jammu & Kashmir (J&K Medicinal Plants Board) with the objective of integrating the rich heritage of medicinal plants into the school education system in a practical and meaningful way.
These herbal gardens are envisioned as interactive learning spaces where students will gain first-hand knowledge about identification, cultivation, and uses of medicinal plants. The initiative also seeks to foster environmental awareness and promote traditional systems of healthcare among young learners.
Director Ayush, J&K and CEO of the J&K Medicinal Plants Board, Dr. Ajay Kumar Tikoo termed the approval a significant milestone, stating that it reflects a forward-looking approach to linking education with traditional knowledge systems. He expressed confidence that the gardens would evolve into centres of experiential learning and inspire students to engage with nature and wellness practices.
Dr. Tikoo further said the initiative would help nurture awareness about preventive healthcare, encourage environmental responsibility, and promote conservation of valuable plant species. He added that it would instill in students an understanding of the relevance of AYUSH systems and the importance of preserving indigenous knowledge.
He also expressed gratitude to Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare, and Education Departments, Sakina Ittoo, for her support in securing approval for the project. Appreciation was also extended to Commissioner/Secretary, Health and Medical Education Department, M. Raju, IAS, for his guidance.
The Directorate of Ayush, J&K reiterated its commitment to expanding such initiatives aimed at strengthening awareness, conservation, and sustainable use of medicinal plants across the Union Territory.
