–A unique initiative to preserve and cherish biodiversity and ethnobotanical traditions
–50 traditional practitioners of medicinal plants participated in day-long event
Sukinda: In a conscious effort to increase awareness about the medicinal value of plants and promote their conservation by the community, Tata Steel Mining organised a workshop – Green Therapy – today at its Sukinda Chromite Mine located in Odisha’s Jajpur district.
Tata Steel Mining has been working for the preservation of the rich heritage and culture of indigenous peoples living around its areas of operation. This is one of many initiatives by the Company to collate the medicinal knowledge of local ayurvedic practitioners, or baidyas.
Green Therapy workshop saw participation from 50 distinguished practitioners of medicinal plants from across Odisha along with Dr Sanjib Das, Professor in Ayurveda at Sri Sri University, Cuttack. The day-long event was attended by more than 200 people from the region. Sanjaya Kumar Swain, Divisional Forest Officer and Soubhagya Kumar Sahoo, Additional Conservator of Forest, Cuttack Forest Division attended the event along with Pankaj Kumar Satija, Managing Director, Tata Steel Mining and Sushant Kumar Mishra, Senior General Manager, Mining, Tata Steel Mining.
Speaking on the occasion, Sanjaya Kumar Swain said, “Organising such events is a testimony to Tata Steel Mining’s efforts in conserving traditional ethnobotanical medicinal practices. I congratulate the practitioners for their contribution to blend modern science with traditional knowledge.”
Pankaj Kumar Satija said, “Deliberations like these have been aimed at helping us in preserving age-old traditions and enhancing our knowledge on the medicinal value of the plants. This programme is in line with series of sustainability initiatives we undertake to contribute our bit towards biodiversity.”
Green Therapy has focused on biodiversity and ethnobotanical traditions besides providing a platform to create opportunities of learning through knowledge-sharing sessions, efficient utilization and nurturing of plants with medicinal value, promoting a sustainable culture. The Company has also been organising awareness sessions on improving the region’s biodiversity and preserving the heritage of the local community.
