About Herbal Garden

The Herbal Garden at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST), Jammu is a distinguished repository dedicated to the cultivation, research, and promotion of medicinal and aromatic plants. Inaugurated on 10th October 2021 by Dr. Jitendra Singh, the Minister of State (Independent Charge) for the Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India, this garden stands as a testament to the university's commitment to advancing knowledge and sustainable practices in the realm of herbal sciences.

Spanning a diverse collection, the garden houses over 90 species of medicinal and aromatic plants, including trees (35 species), shrubs (15 species), herbs (32 species), and climbers (8 species). The garden's multifaceted purpose encompasses demonstration, education, research, and the production of high-quality planting material for medicinal and aromatic plants. It serves as an invaluable resource for students, researchers, farmers, NGO personnel, and field functionaries from development departments. These groups frequently visit the garden, utilizing it as a space to explore the therapeutic potential of these plants and engage in hands-on learning.

The garden is particularly notable for housing specialized sections, including the Nakshatra Vatika, Navgrah Vatika, and a gene bank of Harad (Terminalia chebula), which contribute to the conservation of traditional and regional plant varieties. In addition to its educational and research functions, the Herbal Garden has earned recognition for its excellence, being ranked 1 st in the Garden category during the Flower Show-2023 held at CSIR- Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu. This accolade further underscores its role as a center of excellence in plant conservation and cultivation.

Beyond its academic and scientific significance, the Herbal Garden offers a serene and picturesque environment, inviting visitors to experience the rich flora of Jammu. It emphasizes the importance of sustainable cultivation practices and the preservation of native medicinal plant species, fostering greater awareness of the therapeutic and ecological benefits these plants provide. As a vital component of SKUAST Jammu's educational and environmental initiatives, the Herbal Garden not only contributes to the university’s research and knowledge base but also plays a crucial role in raising awareness about the benefits of herbal plants. Through its efforts in conservation, research, and community engagement, it supports the advancement of agricultural practices and ecological stewardship in the region.