CSIR-NBRI Inaugurates Prakriti Gyan Dham, Its First Eco-Educational Hub in Lucknow

CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute (CSIR-NBRI) has developed a new eco-educational centre named Prakriti Gyan Dham in Lucknow. The centre brings together scientific research, biodiversity conservation, and environmental education for the wider public, and it was inaugurated by Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Dr Jitendra Singh.

Prakriti Gyan Dham is located within the Maharishi Parashar Bioresource Center at Banthra. It is meant to function as a live, hands-on learning space where students, teachers, scientists, and nature enthusiasts can experience India's botanical heritage directly.

About Prakriti Gyan Dham

Described as CSIR-NBRI's first eco-educational centre, Prakriti Gyan Dham aims to connect science with society by combining biodiversity conservation, environmental education, botanical heritage, and experience-based learning.

Rather than relying only on classroom and laboratory learning, the centre uses gardens, heritage trees, plant collections, interactive exhibits, and technology to help visitors understand India's ecological diversity. It also highlights how botanical resources support sustainable livelihoods, ecological restoration, and green development.

Key Features of Prakriti Gyan Dham

PAaVan Path

PAaVan Path, short for Plants and Associated Vegetations for Appreciating Nature, is a heritage path where visitors can explore various plant collections and vegetation types within their natural ecological setting. It is intended to enhance visitors' understanding of plant diversity and the connection between vegetation and ecosystems.

Indian Heritage Garden

The Indian Heritage Garden comprises trees linked to historically and culturally important sites across India. These include:

• The Bawan Imli tamarind tree from Fatehpur, associated with the martyrdom of 52 freedom fighters
• The Mother Dussehri mango tree from Lucknow
• The historically significant Patalpuri banyan tree from Prayagraj
• Offspring of trees associated with Mahatma Gandhi, such as the mango tree planted in Bhitiharwa, Champaran

These plants carry historical and cultural significance in addition to their botanical value.

QR-Code Digitalisation

Prakriti Gyan Dham also uses technology to enhance the visitor experience. Many trees and exhibits carry QR codes that give visitors access to related information, making the experience of learning about botany more interactive and educational.

Bamboosteum

Another distinctive feature of Prakriti Gyan Dham is the Bamboosteum, which features 43 examples of bamboo species and their uses. The display highlights bamboo's potential role in ecological rehabilitation, carbon management, and sustainable development, as well as in producing environment-friendly products and supporting sustainable livelihoods.

Why Prakriti Gyan Dham Matters

The centre is intended to promote practical teaching of environmental education, giving students and teachers the chance to study plants and the functioning of ecosystems through direct observation rather than in the classroom alone.

It also focuses on the economic value of biological resources, noting that plant resources can become part of green construction and sustainable handicrafts if managed properly.

Additionally, the centre aims at the conservation of botanical and cultural heritage by showcasing important trees, traditions, and plant diversity.