India

The seventh international “Fascination of Plants Day” around 18 May 2024 will be launched by plant scientists across the world under the umbrella of the European Plant Science Organisation (EPSO).
The goal of this activity is to get as many people as possible around the world fascinated by plants and enthused about the importance of plant science for agriculture and sustainable production of nutritious food, as well as for horticulture, forestry and the production of plant-based non-food products such as paper, timber, chemicals, energy and pharmaceuticals. The role of plants in environmental conservation is also a key message.

SERB Sponsored “Scientific Social Responsibility Program”
Prof. Ashis K. Nandi
Topic : ‘We and Our Plants’
Prof. Praveen K. Verma
Topic : ‘Plant Science: Now and Then’

This event was organized as part of the Fascination of Plants Day (FoPD) and the Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) Campaign to emphasize the roles of plants and butterflies in environmental conservation. The discussion encouraged all researchers to put individual and collective efforts for biodiversity conservation and prevent environmental degradation. The event followed a nature walk on campus to help students become more mindful about the surroundings and feel the connections with the other inhabitants on the campus including plants, animals, and insects.

Mangrove Quest Day: Diving Deep Into the Coastal Mysteries
Exploring Mangroves of Thanal Eco Park, Payyannur, Kerala
Exploring the conservation status of mangroves in the eco park, evaluating the local people’s and park management’s role in mangrove conservation and explaining the ecological importance of mangroves to the locals.
Thanal Eco Park in Payyanur, located in the Kannur district of Kerala, India, is a serene and eco-friendly park, situated on the banks of the Perumba River. Home to a variety of plants, majorly mangroves, as well as birds and fish.
The purpose of this visit is to assess the conservation status of the mangroves within the eco-park, considering the impact of continuous tourist visits. Additionally, we aim to raise awareness among the local community and management team about the critical importance of mangroves.
Dr. Ajay Kumar
Assistant Professor



SRM INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, RAMAPURAM
FACULTY OF SCIENCE AND HUMANITIES
(A Place for Transformation)
DEPARTMENT OF BIOTECHNOLOGY
In association with
EUROPEAN PLANT SCIENCE ORGANIZATION
Organizes a
A National Level Online Competition “KNOW MY PLANT”
On the celebration of
Fascination of Plants Day, May 18th 2024
Participants : Higher secondary school students & Undergraduate science students
Participants can send a write up (minimum 50 words) on any one plant with its image via email (biotechsrmrmp2021@gmail.com) or WhatsApp (9873701353) by mentioning their name, standard/year of study, school/college name, place and mobile number.
Submission is open from 15.05.2024 to 20.05.2024
No registration fee and best entries will be awarded with prize certificate
Organizing Head
Dr. M. Kamaraj
Associate Professor & Head
Department of Biotechnology
SRMIST, Ramapuram
Convener
Dr. R Vinoth Kumar
Assistant Professor
Department of Biotechnology
SRM IST, Ramapuram



FoPD-2024 celebration theme is SDG goal sensitization specially with reference to plants.
The talk was well received. The audience were PG and research students from botany.
The inputs with regard to it was well received by the students. Smart foods, zero hunger, quality education and the update with regard to SDG was given, cultural ecosystem services were discussed.
Handouts for the research article on the SDG goal of zero hunger published in encyclopedia by
my laboratory group was distributed.
Faculties not only from the department of Botany but also from the department of Tamil joined in.
Technical details of the current state of affairs of SDG goals the necessity to become aware an
apply in possible ways were discussed and conveyed. and students from zoology department also
joined and participated. Motto of smart food good for you and good for planet was discussed and conveyed. Cultural ecosystem services associated with the zero hunger zero wastage and recent inputs of SDG was given
A quiz and online follow up webinar is planned.


The event’s emphasis on harnessing plants to combat pollution is vital for environmental sustainability. Plants play a crucial role in absorbing pollutants and purifying the air and water, contributing to overall environmental health. By spotlighting plant species like Azadirachta indica, Plumeria rubra, and others known for their ability to mitigate air pollution, the event underscores the potential of natural solutions in addressing pressing environmental concerns. With the looming threats of global warming and pollution endangering biodiversity, promoting plant-based strategies is essential for fostering a healthier planet. During the event, students, scholars, and researchers came together to exchange insights and findings on the pivotal role of plants in pollution reduction. Their collaborative efforts highlighted innovative approaches and scientific discoveries aimed at leveraging plant-based solutions for environmental sustainability. By sharing knowledge and expertise, they fostered a dynamic environment conducive to exploring new avenues for mitigating pollution and promoting a healthier planet. The event served as a catalyst for interdisciplinary collaboration, inspiring participants to continue their research and advocacy efforts in this critical field.