Patna: A lecture on the importance of medicinal plants was held in Patna on Tuesday as part of a two-day programme marking World Wildlife Day 2025. The session, organised by the EIACP Centre of the Centre for Studies on Environment and Climate (CSEC) at ADRI, took place at the bio-reserve and ecology centre of Tarumitra, also known as Friends of Trees. The event was supported by the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
During the lecture, researcher Mausam Bahar from CSEC–ADRI said the EIACP team had already documented nearly 60 medicinal plant species growing inside the Tarumitra reserve and planned to expand the list. He explained that many of these plants play a key role in addressing common health problems. For example, the Leaf of Life plant, or Patthar Chattaa, is used to treat kidney stones and skin issues. Shiny Bush helps control high uric acid levels, while Akarkara can ease toothache. The Bone Setter plant helps in healing fractures, and Bavachi is widely used for skin-related treatments.
EIACP–CSEC coordinator Dr Mousumi Gupta spoke about the various capacity-building programmes and green skills initiatives run under the MoEFCC. These programmes aim to equip young people with knowledge about environmental protection and sustainable living. A short film on Mission LiFE, a national campaign encouraging environmentally responsible behaviour, was also shown to students and visitors. Dr Sunil Kumar Gupta of CSEC–ADRI gave a detailed presentation on how rising air pollution levels are harming the health of people in Patna.
Nearly 90 students from B.D. College and Manav Bharti International School attended the event. Tarumitra director Father Tony Pendanath and environmental activist Devo Priya Dutta were also present. Members of the EIACP–ADRI team, including Pooja Kumari and Gulshan Patel, took part in organising the programme. The event will continue on Wednesday with more discussions on the role of plants in creating a healthier environment.
