In a significant step towards strengthening experiential learning in Ayurveda, Rashtriya Ayurveda Vidyapeeth (RAV) organized a three-day Training Programme on “Identification of Flora” in the ecologically rich district of Wayanad, Kerala, from 27 to 29 January 2026. The initiative aimed to equip students with practical skills in identifying and understanding medicinal plants through direct field-based exposure.
Focus on Hands-On Learning in the Western Ghats
Conducted in the biodiverse landscape of the Western Ghats, the programme emphasized immersive learning across varied ecological settings. Participants were trained in recognizing medicinal flora, understanding habitat-specific plant characteristics, and appreciating the link between biodiversity and traditional healing systems.
The programme was designed to bridge the gap between classroom knowledge and real-world application—an essential requirement for effective Ayurvedic education and practice.
Eminent Experts Grace the Inaugural Session
The inaugural session of Rashtriya Ayurveda Vidyapeeth witnessed the presence of distinguished experts from the field of Ayurveda and environmental stewardship, including:
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Vaidya Rabinarayana Acharya, Director General, CCRAS, New Delhi
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Vaidya Mohan Lal Jaiswal, Retired Professor, National Institute of Ayurveda (NIA), Jaipur
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Vaidya Madhu K.P., Associate Professor, Vaidyaratnam P.S. Varrier Ayurveda College, Kottakkal
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Ms. Rose Joseph, Range Officer, North Wayanad Division, Department of Forest, Government of Kerala
Their presence underscored the academic and institutional importance of the programme.
Participation and Academic Impact
A total of 30 postgraduate students specializing in Dravyaguna (the Ayurvedic discipline dealing with medicinal substances) took part in the training. Through guided field visits, expert-led discussions, and interactive sessions, students developed a deeper understanding of:
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Techniques of medicinal plant identification
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Ecological diversity and habitat-based flora
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Principles of conservation and sustainable use of plant resources
This exposure enhanced their applied knowledge, which is crucial for both clinical practice and research in Ayurveda.
Strengthening Traditional Knowledge and Conservation
The programme also highlighted the importance of conserving biodiversity while promoting traditional systems of medicine. By connecting students directly with nature, RAV is fostering a generation of practitioners who value both scientific rigor and ecological responsibility.
Conclusion: Rashtriya Ayurveda Vidyapeeth
Through initiatives like this, Rashtriya Ayurveda Vidyapeeth continues to advance capacity building and experiential education in Ayurveda. The Wayanad training programme stands as a meaningful example of integrating traditional knowledge with field-based learning, reinforcing the role of Ayurveda in sustainable healthcare and biodiversity conservation.
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Source: PIB
