A cohort of educators from the SARC Foundation in Kanchanpur, Nepal, embarked on an enlightening educational tour to the Uttarakhand Biotechnology Council in Patwadangar, Nainital. Under the guidance of Director Dr. Sanjay Kumar, they delved into the realm of biotechnology, gaining invaluable knowledge about research activities and modern techniques.
Led by Dr. Sumit Purohit, renowned for his expertise in biotechnology, the teachers were introduced to the state-of-the-art environmental biotechnology and plant tissue culture laboratories of the council. Through hands-on experiences and interactive sessions, they familiarized themselves with cutting-edge equipment and techniques used in biotechnological research.
A highlight of the visit was the demonstration of tissue culture methods for propagating kiwi and walnut saplings—an innovative approach to mass propagation of fruit-bearing trees. Dr. Sumit Purohit elucidated the intricacies of tissue culture techniques, empowering the teachers with practical skills and theoretical insights into plant propagation.
Furthermore, the educators were introduced to the institute’s patent and environmentally significant seed disc—a revolutionary tool for reforestation and ecosystem restoration. Dr. Sumit Purohit explained how the seed disc facilitates the growth of fruit and flower trees in forests, thereby providing sustenance for wildlife and contributing to environmental conservation efforts.
Dr. Sumit Purohit emphasized the critical importance of reforestation in mitigating habitat loss and preserving biodiversity. By equipping the teachers with the knowledge and skills to propagate fruit-bearing trees through tissue culture and deploy seed discs in forest restoration efforts, the visit aimed to empower them as catalysts for positive environmental change in their communities.
As the educational tour concluded, the SARC Foundation teachers expressed profound gratitude to Dr. Sumit Purohit and the Uttarakhand Biotechnology Council for their hospitality and enlightening insights. They departed with a newfound appreciation for the role of biotechnology in environmental conservation and a commitment to integrating these learnings into their educational practices.
The visit to the Uttarakhand Biotechnology Council exemplifies the spirit of collaboration and fostering cross-border partnerships for sustainable development and environmental stewardship. It underscores the transformative potential of education in empowering individuals and communities to address pressing environmental challenges and build a greener, more resilient future.