Jammu, March 29, 2026 : In a significant step towards promoting medicinal plant awareness and conservation, the National Medicinal Plants Board under the Ministry of AYUSH has approved the establishment of 100 School Herbal Gardens across the Jammu Division, with a financial outlay of ₹53 lakh.
The initiative aims to develop herbal gardens in selected schools across all districts, with 10 schools in each district being covered. The project was approved following recommendations from the Directorate of AYUSH, J&K (J&K Medicinal Plants Board), in collaboration with the Directorate of School Education Jammu.
Blending Education With Traditional Knowledge
The herbal gardens are envisioned as interactive learning spaces where students will gain practical knowledge about medicinal plants—ranging from identification and cultivation to their therapeutic uses. The initiative seeks to bridge classroom education with India’s rich heritage of traditional healthcare systems.
Director AYUSH J&K and CEO of J&K Medicinal Plants Board, Ajay Kumar Tikoo, termed the approval a “significant milestone,” highlighting its role in fostering experiential learning and environmental awareness among students. He noted that the project will encourage young minds to engage with nature while understanding the value of preventive healthcare.
Focus On Sustainability & Preventive Healthcare
The initiative is expected to:
- Promote awareness about AYUSH systems and natural remedies
- Encourage conservation of medicinal plant species
- Instill environmental responsibility among students
- Support preventive and holistic healthcare practices
Dr. Tikoo emphasized that such efforts will help preserve indigenous knowledge and pass it on to future generations in a structured and meaningful way.
He also expressed gratitude to Health & Medical Education Minister Sakeena Itoo and Commissioner Secretary M. Raju for their continued support in securing approval for the project.
The initiative is expected to create a lasting impact by transforming schools into hubs of green learning while promoting a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle among the youth.
