‘Prakriti Gyan Dham’ — A New Center for Biodiversity and Environmental Education

Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, inaugurated the environment-focused education center ‘Prakriti Gyan Dham’ in Lucknow. Developed by the CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute (CSIR-NBRI), the center is located at the Maharishi Parashar Bio-resource Centre in Banthra. Its objective is to connect scientific research, biodiversity conservation, and environmental education with society.

Development as an Active ‘Live Laboratory’

Prakriti Gyan Dham has been developed as a ‘Live Laboratory’ where students, teachers, scientists, and nature enthusiasts can understand India’s botanical and ecological diversity through direct, hands-on experience. Moving beyond traditional classroom-based instruction, its model focuses on experiential learning, linking botany with biodiversity conservation, ecology, and sustainable livelihoods.

PAaVan Path and Indian Heritage Garden

The center’s key attractions include the ‘PAaVan Path’ and the ‘Indian Heritage Garden.’ The PAaVan Path offers an opportunity to understand various plants and their ecological relationships. The Indian Heritage Garden showcases trees of historical and cultural significance, particularly those linked to Indian history and the freedom movement; thus, the initiative integrates biological heritage with cultural heritage.

Technology-based Environmental Education

QR codes have been installed on various trees and exhibits throughout Prakriti Gyan Dham. Through these means, visitors can digitally access information regarding plant species, their significance, and relevant scientific details. This initiative exemplifies technology-enabled environmental education, making scientific information more accessible and interactive for the general public.

‘Bamboostium’ and Sustainable Development

The center’s ‘Bamboostium’ is particularly significant, showcasing 43 species of bamboo and their various applications. Bamboo is linked to carbon management, ecological restoration, eco-friendly products, green construction, and sustainable livelihoods. This example demonstrates how the scientific and sustainable use of bio-resources can foster a green economy and support local livelihoods.

Significance for UPSC

This initiative is relevant to GS Paper-III (Environment & Ecology). It should be studied in the context of biodiversity conservation, ecosystem services, environmental education, sustainable development, botanical resources, ecological restoration, and the green economy. Furthermore, the role of CSIR-NBRI serves as a key example of bridging the gap between scientific research and society. In the UPSC Mains examination, this initiative can be cited as a model for "bridging the gap between scientific institutions and society" and for the "sustainable use alongside conservation of bio-resources."