Celebrating the Importance of Plant Science on Fascination of Plants Day

The CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology in Palampur recently celebrated the international Fascination of Plants Day, emphasizing the critical role of plant science in addressing global challenges such as climate change and biodiversity loss. Director Dr. Sudesh Kumar Yadav highlighted the importance of plants in daily life, while keynote speaker Dr. D.K. Upreti discussed the relationship between humans and plants, particularly lichens as indicators of environmental health. The event also featured participation from local students and teachers, fostering community engagement in scientific discourse. Discover more about this vibrant celebration and its implications for sustainability.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 21, 2026, 12:44 IST

Significance of Fascination of Plants Day

News Media
Palampur

The CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (IHBT) in Palampur celebrated the international Fascination of Plants Day (FoPD) with enthusiasm, emphasizing the crucial role of plant science in addressing pressing global issues like climate change, loss of biodiversity, and environmental degradation.

During the event, Director Dr. Sudesh Kumar Yadav welcomed attendees and highlighted the essential contributions of plants to daily life, including providing clean air, water, food, and fiber. He also discussed the institute's efforts in surveying, documenting, characterizing, and conserving plant resources.

In his keynote speech, Dr. D.K. Upreti, the former Acting Director of CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute in Lucknow, elaborated on the complex relationship between humans and plants, particularly focusing on lichens. He pointed out their role as indicators of climate change and environmental pollution, encouraging the audience to embrace sustainable practices and conserve natural resources.

The event saw participation from institute staff, scholars, and dignitaries from local organizations. As part of the JIGYASA initiative under the Mission Bioresource Conservation and Prospection, students and teachers from Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV) Paprola in Kangra also took part in the celebrations, creating a lively mix of scientific discussion and community involvement.