The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) has allocated ₹1.29 crore to the Andhra University's Department of Botany for the conservation of approximately 30 endangered plant species found across Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Maharashtra.

This funding, granted under the Assistance to Botanical Garden (ABG) programme, aims to safeguard these rare botanical treasures and promote biodiversity conservation efforts.

Led by Prof. SB Padal, Head of Department, the project titled 'Introduction and Ex-Situ Conservation of Endemic and Threatened Plants in Andhra University Botanical Garden' will focus on collecting, identifying, and conserving native plant species within the university's botanical garden.

The initiative aims to ensure the future sustainability and protection of these invaluable botanical resources.

Established in 1946, Andhra University's Botanical Garden is renowned for its dedication to the research and conservation of rare and endangered plants.

Situated over 11.5 acres in the heart of Visakhapatnam city, the garden features diverse sections dedicated to ornamental, aquatic, cycad, and Pteridophyte plants. With a dense canopy resembling a natural forest, the garden serves as a vital hub for biodiversity research and conservation efforts.

Among the 30 endangered species targeted for conservation are Boswellia Ovalifoliolata (South Indian Olibanum), Cycas sphaerica Roxb, Dendrobium aqueum Lindl, Hoya alexicaca, Indigofera barberi Gamble, Isonandra villosa Wight,

Kalanchoe bhidei T. Cooke, Pavetta breviflora DC, and Syzygium alternifolium. These plant species, facing various threats to their survival, represent a significant component of the region's ecological heritage.

The project underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between academia, government, and environmental organizations in addressing the pressing challenges of biodiversity loss and habitat degradation.

Through dedicated conservation initiatives like this, Andhra University is contributing to the broader goal of preserving India's rich botanical diversity for future generations.

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