Access to University Facilities for Sustainable Farming Practices at JSS AHER

Fostering Agricultural Innovation: JSS AHER's Collaboration with Nutrisukan Biotech

At JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research (JSS AHER), we are dedicated to supporting local farmers and food producers in their efforts to enhance sustainable farming practices.

At JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research (JSS AHER), we are dedicated to supporting local farmers and food producers in their efforts to enhance sustainable farming practices.

Our collaboration with Nutrisukan Biotech, an esteemed incubate at JSS AHER, serves as a prime example of our commitment to fostering innovation and sustainability within the agricultural sector.


State-of-the-Art Facilities

Nutrisukan Biotech utilizes our state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced laboratories and research resources, which enable them to conduct cutting-edge research in nutraceuticals and herbal products. Our processing unit employs advanced technologies such as extraction, isolation, purification, synthesis, and fermentation, providing Nutrisukan Biotech with the necessary tools to create high-quality nutraceuticals. This access not only supports their research efforts but also allows local farmers to engage with these technologies, enhancing their farming practices and improving the quality of their products.


Research Collaborations

JSS AHER actively partners with leading research institutions, including the Indian Institute of Millet Research, RV College of Engineering, and the University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore. These collaborations facilitate knowledge exchange and provide local farmers with access to innovative solutions that can revolutionize sustainable agriculture. Through joint efforts, we focus on developing methods that improve crop yield and sustainability while addressing environmental challenges. Our research initiatives are designed to empower farmers with the latest advancements in agricultural science and technology.

Commitment to Sustainable Solutions

At JSS AHER, we take pride in our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. By providing access to our facilities and expertise, we empower local farmers and food producers to implement sustainable practices. Our research and development initiatives strive to create value for the agricultural community, helping them achieve better outcomes through advanced scientific solutions. We believe that collaboration with local stakeholders is essential for fostering sustainable agricultural practices that benefit both the community and the environment.

Recognized Leadership in the Nutraceutical Industry

Nutrisukan Biotech, a trusted global leader in the nutraceutical and herbal industry, has been recognized for its commitment to excellence, earning accolades such as the ‘Emerging Nutraceutical Company of the Year’ by Business Standard and the ‘Best Biotech Start-Up’ award from the Government of India. Our partnership with Nutrisukan Biotech exemplifies how JSS AHER supports innovative companies that prioritize sustainability and quality. In summary, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research not only offers state-of-the-art facilities for research and development but also actively engages with local farmers and food producers to foster sustainable farming practices. By leveraging our resources and expertise, we aim to enhance agricultural productivity and promote environmental sustainability, ensuring a better future for our communities.

Nutrisukan

Access to University Facilities for Sustainable Farming Practices: The MoA with Sahaja Samrudha

The School of Life Sciences, Mysuru (SLSM), in collaboration with the Department of Biotechnology & Bioinformatics at JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research (JSS AHER), has entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with Sahaja Samrudha, Bangalore. This strategic partnership is dedicated to assessing and characterizing indigenous local rice varieties, thereby promoting sustainable farming practices. This initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 2 (SDG-2), particularly targeting Indicator 2.5, which focuses on maintaining the genetic diversity of seeds and ensuring equitable sharing of benefits derived from genetic resources.

Sahaja Samrudha, meaning "Bountiful Nature," is a grassroots movement dedicated to safeguarding agrobiodiversity and promoting sustainable village development through organic practices. The organization collaborates with farmers to preserve and improve indigenous crop varieties, regenerate soil health, and enhance livestock management, all while leveraging the wisdom of traditional farming practices. With its dynamic approach, Sahaja Samrudha plays a pivotal role in the regeneration of Indian food systems and the conservation of biodiversity.

This agreement establishes a collaborative framework between SLSM, JSS AHER, and Sahaja Samrudha, focusing on the assessment and characterization of indigenous local rice varieties, utilizing the university's extensive facilities.

Access to University Facilities

The MoA underscores JSS AHER’s commitment to providing access to university facilities, including state-of-the-art laboratories, research resources, and technological expertise, to local farmers and food producers. This partnership facilitates:


  • Assessment and Characterization of Indigenous Rice Varieties: The project will utilize JSS AHER’s advanced facilities to identify and characterize the unique attributes of local rice varieties. This research is critical for understanding their nutritional content, resilience to environmental stresses, and suitability for sustainable farming practices. By providing access to these facilities, local farmers can collaborate with researchers to enhance their understanding of indigenous crops and improve their farming techniques.
  • Promotion of Local Agricultural Biodiversity:Through the MoA, JSS AHER promotes the preservation of agricultural biodiversity by emphasizing the importance of indigenous varieties. The university’s facilities will support local farmers in maintaining their traditional crops, which are often better adapted to local conditions than commercial varieties. This initiative contributes to resilient food systems and enhances food security in the region.

Key Attendees at the Signing Ceremony

The signing ceremony of the MoA was attended by distinguished individuals committed to advancing agricultural research and community welfare:

  • Dr. Vishal Kumar Gupta, Dean of Academics, JSS AHER
  • Dr. Raveesha K.A., Dean, School of Life Sciences, Mysuru
  • Mr. Krishnaprasad G., Director, Sahaja Samrudha, Bangalore
  • Dr. Mohan T.C., Assistant Professor, SLSM
  • Dr. Charukesi R., Assistant Professor, SLSM
  • Dr. Kiran Kumar M.N., Assistant Professor, SLSM
  • Dr. Shweatha H., Assistant Professor, SLSM

These attendees represent a strong commitment to fostering research and development that benefits both the academic community and local farmers.


Supporting Evidence and Documents

To substantiate this collaboration, we have attached the following documents:

  • Memorandum of Agreement - Outlining the terms and objectives of the collaboration between SLSM, JSS AHER, and Sahaja Samrudha.
  • Attendance Sheet - Documenting the attendees present at the signing ceremony, providing evidence of institutional support for the initiative.
  • Press Release - An announcement of the partnership, detailing the goals and expected outcomes of the MoA.

Conclusion

The MoA between the School of Life Sciences at JSS AHER and Sahaja Samrudha signifies a substantial commitment to providing access to university facilities that enhance sustainable agriculture practices. By focusing on the assessment and characterization of indigenous rice varieties, this collaboration not only addresses SDG-2 and Indicator 2.5 but also promotes local agricultural practices and food security. Through this partnership, JSS AHER is dedicated to improving the livelihoods of local communities and contributing positively to environmental sustainability.

Nutrisukan
Nutrisukan

Report on Collaboration with Local Communities Addressing SDG-2: Zero Hunger

This report highlights the collaborative efforts of the Department of Pharmacognosy at JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research (JSS AHER) in promoting sustainable land use and conservation practices, specifically focusing on food security and nutrition within local communities. These initiatives align with Sustainable Development Goal 2 (SDG-2: Zero Hunger), emphasizing the importance of preserving natural resources and enhancing food safety for community well-being.

Conservation and Sustainable Utilization of Land

The college actively engages with local communities to organize events aimed at promoting the conservation and sustainable use of land, including forests and wildlife. These efforts not only support biodiversity but also enhance the availability of natural resources that are essential for food production and nutrition.

  • Annual Events for Conservation of Medicinal Plants:The Department of Pharmacognosy organizes annual events dedicated to the conservation of medicinal plants in the Nilgiris Biosphere. These events foster awareness about the importance of medicinal plants, which can play a vital role in improving community health and nutrition. By promoting the sustainable harvesting and use of these plants, the college contributes to the preservation of biodiversity and the enhancement of local diets, thereby supporting food security.
  • Food Adulteration and Safety Awareness:A key initiative includes the distribution of a handy booklet titled “Food Adulteration and Safety.” This booklet contains extensive information about common food adulterants and methods for identifying them. By educating the public about food safety, the college empowers community members to make informed decisions regarding their food consumption. This initiative is crucial in ensuring that individuals have access to safe and nutritious food, thus directly addressing the targets of SDG-2.

Impact on Local Communities

These collaborative initiatives not only raise awareness about the conservation of resources but also enhance the nutritional knowledge of local communities. By emphasizing the importance of medicinal plants and food safety, the college supports the health and well-being of community members.

  • Promotion of Sustainable Practices: The events organized by the Department of Pharmacognosy encourage sustainable practices among local communities, ensuring that both biodiversity and food sources are preserved for future generations.
  • Empowerment Through Knowledge: The distribution of educational materials, such as the booklet on food adulteration, equips community members with the knowledge needed to protect themselves from foodborne illnesses and ensure their nutritional needs are met.

Conclusion

The collaborative efforts of JSS AHER, particularly through the Department of Pharmacognosy, play a significant role in addressing SDG-2: Zero Hunger. By promoting the conservation of medicinal plants and raising awareness about food safety, the college enhances food security and nutrition within local communities. These initiatives are vital for fostering sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and the health of community members, ultimately contributing to a more food-secure future.

Nutrisukan

Access to University Facilities for Sustainable Farming Practices: Highlights from the National Symposium on Farmers-Manufacturers Meet

The National Symposium on Farmers-Manufacturers Meet: Vision for Import to Export Strategy - Self-Reliant India in Raw Drug Production 2024 was organized by the Centre of Medicinal Plant Research in Homeopathy under the Central Council for Research in Homeopathy, Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India. Held at Kluney Manor, Ooty on February 26th and 27th, 2024, this symposium served as a vital platform for fostering collaboration and innovation in the field of medicinal plants and homeopathy, highlighting our commitment to providing access to university facilities that support local farmers and food producers.

Key Highlights

  • Inauguration: The symposium commenced with an inaugural session led by Dr. Subhash Kaushik, the current Director General, and Dr. Anil Khurana, the previous Director General. This event facilitated a gathering of experts, practitioners, and students, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in enhancing sustainable farming practices.
  • Collaboration with JSS College of Pharmacy: The symposium provided a valuable opportunity for interaction among colleagues and students from our sister institute, JSS College of Pharmacy, Ooty, fostering academic and professional networking that can lead to improved access to research and facilities for local farmers.
  • Engagement with Experts: On the second day, an insightful discussion was facilitated by Dr. Logesh R. with Dr. R. Murugeswaran, Deputy Director of the National Medicinal Plant Board, Ministry of AYUSH. This interaction underscored the role of policy and strategy in promoting the use of medicinal plants, which is crucial for sustainable agricultural practices.
  • Research Presentation: A highlight of the event was the recognition of Mr. Prajwal, a first-year M. Pharm student from the Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, who received 1st Prize for his poster presentation titled “Formulation and Evaluation of Long Pepper Syrup for Cough Suppressant.” This achievement demonstrates the innovative research being conducted at JSS AHER and its relevance to developing effective, plant-based medicinal solutions.

Contribution to SDG-2: Zero Hunger

The symposium directly aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 2 (SDG-2: Zero Hunger) through several key initiatives:

  • Promotion of Sustainable Practices: Discussions around raw drug production strategies promote the sustainable cultivation of medicinal plants, enhancing food security and nutrition by providing improved access to natural remedies.

  • Collaboration Between Farmers and Manufacturers: By fostering synergies between farmers and manufacturers, the symposium empowers local economies, ensuring communities have the resources and knowledge necessary for effective medicinal plant production.
  • Innovation in Nutritional Solutions: The recognition of student research on plant-based formulations, such as the Long Pepper Syrup, contributes to the development of alternative health solutions, promoting overall well-being and nutrition in local communities.

Access to University Facilities

JSS AHER is committed to providing access to its extensive facilities, including laboratories, technological resources, and plant stocks, to local farmers and food producers. This initiative enhances sustainable farming practices by:

  • Facilitating Research: Local farmers can engage with university researchers to explore sustainable practices in the cultivation of medicinal plants, thereby improving crop yields and health outcomes.
  • Providing Training and Resources: Through workshops and collaborative projects, farmers gain access to expert knowledge and modern techniques that support sustainable agriculture.

Acknowledgments

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our Principal and Head of the Department for their unwavering guidance and support, as well as to the management of JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research (JSS AHER) for their continuous encouragement in promoting initiatives that enhance food security and nutrition. Through events like this symposium, we reaffirm our commitment to improving the lives of local farmers and contributing to a sustainable future.