Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, revealed a groundbreaking achievement in the field of botany. The Lucknow-based CSIR-NBRI (National Botanical Research Institute) under his ministry’s purview introduced a new variety of lotus flower called “NBRI Namoh 108.” The flower stands out with an extraordinary count of 108 petals, a feature that carries cultural and spiritual significance.
Dr. Jitendra Singh unveiled the Namoh 108 lotus variety and its associated products at a ceremony held at the NBRI in Lucknow. In his address, he highlighted the special significance of this variety by combining the revered ‘lotus flower’ with the sacred number ‘108’. He stressed that this unique combination bestows a distinct identity upon the new lotus variety.
This particular lotus, named “NBRI Namoh 108,” boasts a prolonged blooming period from March to December and is known for its rich nutritional content. Of special note is that it marks the first instance of a fully sequenced genome for a lotus variety, elucidating its distinctive characteristics.
To augment this impressive introduction, Dr. Jitendra Singh also introduced a range of products derived from the Namoh 108 lotus, including clothing crafted from lotus fiber and a fragrance known as ‘Frotus,’ extracted from the lotus flowers. The development of these products is a result of the collaborative efforts of NBRI and FFDC (Fragrance and Flavour Development Centre), Kannauj, under the Lotus Research Programme.
Praising the NBRI for christening this unique lotus variety as “Namoh 108,” Dr. Jitendra Singh attributed it as a fitting tribute to the remarkable leadership and innate qualities of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The lotus variety’s unveiling in the tenth year of Prime Minister Modi’s tenure is symbolic of his enduring commitment and influence.
In conjunction with the introduction of the new lotus variety, Dr. Jitendra Singh initiated the “Lotus Mission.” He emphasized that this mission, akin to other prominent schemes, is being executed in a mission-oriented approach, showcasing the government’s dedication to results-driven initiatives. The mission expands the already impressive roster of projects like the National Honey and Bee Mission, National Bamboo Mission, National Food Security Mission, and more.
Dr. Jitendra Singh further commended the NBRI’s strides in recycling, as evidenced by the launch of herbal colors extracted from flower offerings at temples. These natural hues not only hold cultural significance but also hold potential for dyeing textiles, such as silk and cotton.
Expanding the array of botanical innovations, Dr. Jitendra Singh introduced the “NBRI-Nihar” variety of Aloe vera. This clonal selection exhibits significantly higher gel yield compared to conventional Aloe vera plants. Additionally, it demonstrates enhanced resistance against bacterial and fungal infections.
The event saw the launch of several herbal products, including “Herbal Cold Drops” for common cough and cold relief, and “Herbal Anti Dandruff Hair Oil,” both developed by Marc Laboratories.
A notable addition to the day’s announcements was the unveiling of a comprehensive database containing 500 Raw Drug Repositories, developed by the NBRI as per the Indian Pharmacopoeia Standards. This initiative aims to standardize and promote the use of indigenous medicinal plants.
To enhance botanical knowledge sharing, Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated the CSIR-NBRI digital Herbarium, a repository of India’s flora specimens, facilitating public access to vital information. The event also saw the release of a book focusing on ‘Plant Resources of Uttar Pradesh’ and an accompanying e-flora guide, providing comprehensive information about over 5,000 plant species native to the state.
Amidst these remarkable unveilings, Dr. Jitendra Singh introduced the “NBRI-Goutout,” a supplement aimed at addressing gout and gouty arthritis. In a nod to the needs of high-altitude army personnel, a nutri-bar was also introduced to cater to their nutritional requirements.
During the event, Dr. Jitendra Singh engaged with various stakeholders and visitors through a six-day exhibition, where the CSIR-NBRI showcased its cutting-edge research, products, technologies, and expertise. The Minister’s presence resonated with Dr. Ajit Kumar Shasany, Director of NBRI, who praised his efforts in creating a revolutionary platform to highlight CSIR’s achievements through the ‘One Week One Lab’ initiative.
As the event concluded, the aura of botanical innovation and scientific advancement hung in the air, leaving a lasting impression on the landscape of scientific progress and natural discovery.