Rare and Endemic Raaj Harar Plant (Terminalia chebula Retz.) Thrives in Pune, Thanks to SGWF’s Dedication and Dr. Verma’s Vision
JAMMU/PUNE: A monumental achievement in botanical conservation has been celebrated with the thriving presence of the rare and invaluable Raaj Harar plant (Terminalia chebula Retz.) in Pune, all thanks to the tireless dedication of Synergetic Green Warriors Foundation (SGWF) and the visionary leadership of Dr. Sonia Verma, Director of SGWF.
Dr. Verma highlighted the remarkable efforts of SGWF’s research officer, who worked tirelessly and selflessly to achieve this success. Inspired by the challenge set forth by Dr. C. M. Seth IFS during Dr. Verma’s tenure as an MSc Forestry student, the research officer embarked on a journey to preserve the genotype of the Raaj Harar plant (Terminalia chebula Retz.). Dr. Verma emphasized the pivotal role played by this challenge in igniting a passion for conservation and botanical research within SGWF’s ranks.
“Through unwavering commitment and inspired by Dr. Seth’s challenge, our research officer devoted himself to the preservation of the Raaj Harar plant,” stated Dr. Verma. “His dedication is a testament to the spirit of SGWF and our mission to safeguard biodiversity.”
Since then, Dr. Verma and her team have tirelessly worked on preserving the genetic legacy of the Raaj Harar plant. To date, approximately 4000 grafted plants have been raised, with several reaching the fruiting stage. This remarkable achievement signifies a significant step forward in ensuring the continued existence and propagation of this rare species.
The Raaj Harar plant, revered for its remarkable medicinal properties, faced the imminent threat of extinction due to its old age and non-germinative capacity by seed at village Mathwar of District Jammu. Over the course of 25 years, numerous experiments were conducted to propagate it both by seed and vegetative means. However, it was Dr. Rakesh Verma’s pioneering work that ultimately prevailed, ensuring the perpetuation of its genetic heritage through meticulous grafting techniques conducted at a specific time of year.
“This achievement stands as a testament to the resilience of scientific inquiry and collaborative effort in the face of biodiversity loss,” remarked Advocate (Dr) Priya Sharma, General Secretary of SGWF. “Through decades of tireless research and experimentation, we have not only preserved the Raaj Harar plant but also unlocked new avenues for its sustainable cultivation and utilization.”
Dr. Suryawanshi, from Pune is instrumental in facilitating the transfer and a visionary in holistic healing practices, expressed profound appreciation for the significance of this milestone. “In establishing our Ayurvedic village in Pune, we are committed to fostering biodiversity and preserving traditional medicinal knowledge. The addition of the Raaj Harar plant to our sanctuary reaffirms our dedication to these principles.” Dr Arvind Kadus a renowned conservationist also appreciated the efforts of Dr rakesh Verma, he said that very soon a team of researchers will visit Dr Verma and learn how he worked to save this genotype.
The successful transplantation of the Raaj Harar plant to Pune represents a beacon of hope for the conservation of endangered species worldwide. It underscores the critical importance of long-term research, collaboration, and innovation in safeguarding the planet’s natural diversity for future generations.
Dr. Verma expressed her gratitude to Dr. Seth for his inspiration and mentorship, as well as to the entire SGWF team for their unwavering dedication and hard work. She also extended her appreciation to Dr. Rakesh Verma for his pioneering research and vision in the field of botanical conservation. The success of SGWF in raising grafted Raaj Harar plants underscores the power of collaboration, dedication, and a shared commitment to preserving our planet’s natural heritage. It serves as a beacon of hope for the future of biodiversity conservation and traditional medicinal knowledge preservation.