In recent news, the Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic plants (CIMAP) has declared a photography contest. This competition, themed ‘Know your Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (MAPs),’ is aimed at highlighting the importance of preserving medicinal plants.
Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Establishment and Purpose
Known popularly as CIMAP, the Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants was originally set up as the Central Indian Medicinal Plants Organisation (CIMPO) in 1959. Later, in 1978, it was rebranded as CIMAP. The institute focuses primarily on high-quality research in biological and chemical sciences, with a particular emphasis on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (MAPs). Additionally, CIMAP extends its technologies and services to farmers and entrepreneurs involved in the cultivation and sale of MAPs.
Location and Facilities
The headquarters of CIMAP is located in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. The Lucknow location also houses the National Gene Bank of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, which includes a seed gene bank and a tissue and DNA bank.
Research Centres
Apart from its headquarters, CIMAP operates research centres in Bangalore (Karnataka), Hyderabad (Telangana), Pantnagar (Uttarakhand), and Purara (Uttarakhand).
CIMAP Accreditations
CIMAP has gained accreditation from the International Centre for Science and High Technology-United Nations Industrial Development Organization (ICS-UNIDO) and the Indian-Ocean Rim Association (IORA). These bodies recognize CIMAP as a leading research and training centre on Medicinal Plants among their member countries.
About International Centre for Science and High Technology
Established in 1988, the International Centre for Science and High Technology (ICS) functions under the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). The centre’s primary focus is on facilitating the transfer of knowledge and technology from industrialized nations to developing countries. ICS operates four core scientific programs: Rational drug design and development, Next generation biofuels and bio-based chemicals, Geothermal energy, and Nanotechnologies. The headquarters of the ICS is based in Trieste, Italy.
With its recent announcement of a photography contest, CIMAP aims not only to encourage awareness about medicinal and aromatic plants but also to engage with the public in their mission of conservation. The endeavor reflects the institute’s ongoing commitment to research, development, and education in the field of medicinal and aromatic plants.
Last Modified: February 7, 2024