Campus Times | Lucknow

CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CIMAP) organized a two-day Summer Internship-cum-Exposure Visit for students of La Martiniere Girls’ College Lucknow on May 21 and 22, with the aim of promoting scientific learning and research awareness among school students.

Hands-on learning in scientific research

The programme introduced students to advanced research activities related to medicinal and aromatic plants. A total of 21 students from Classes IX to XII participated in the internship and visited key research facilities, including the Biological Central Facility, Tissue Culture Central Facility, and Chemical Central Facility.

Students also explored the institute’s farm area, vermicompost unit, mushroom cultivation unit, and demonstration blocks to gain insight into sustainable agricultural practices and scientific cultivation techniques.

Addressing the participants, CIMAP Director Dr. Prabodh Kumar Trivedi said that such initiatives help connect young students with the scientific community and inspire them to pursue innovation and research-oriented careers.

Scientist-F Dr. Bhaskar Shukla briefed the students about the CSIR-JIGYASA programme and introduced the CSIR Aroma Mobile App, highlighting its role in providing information on aromatic plants, cultivation technologies, and advisory services.

The programme also featured expert lectures by Dr. Ratnashekhar on molecular analysis in medicinal and aromatic plants, and by Dr. D. N. Mani on Ayurvedic lifestyle practices.

During the concluding session, certificates were distributed to all participating students. The Director also highlighted CIMAP’s recent genome-editing research on low-nicotine tobacco, describing it as a significant step toward reducing nicotine dependency and promoting public health-focused scientific innovation.