Established at NBRI’s remote research centre in Bantra (Uttar Pradesh) by the joint efforts of scientists from the National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI), researchers and the Forest Department, this is the third Miyawaki forest in the city, as reported by IANS, a partner of TV BRICS.

Earlier, two Miyawaki forests were established, one at Aliganj, which was lauded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and the other at Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University.

“The Miyawaki forest is basically a unique method used worldwide to fight deforestation. It is named after Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki, who came up with the method of creating dense forests with indigenous plants. This forest develops by making the best use of every part of the land and can grow even on infertile land,” said Ajit Kumar Shasany, Director of the National Botanical Research Institute.

The NBRI chief reminded that creating a Miyawaki forest involves creating dense tiered forests that grow rapidly and mimic the natural biodiversity of local forests.

This method involves planting two to four different species of native trees in every square metre. The plants used in Miyawaki’s method do not require regular maintenance such as fertilisation and watering. In this method, the trees grow within three years, he said.

“Our team of scientists divided each square metre of land and planted a sapling of one large tree, one medium tree, a shrub and a medicinal plant in each square metre. We planted big trees like jamun, arjuna and neem, medium trees like guava and kachnar, besides mulberry, lemon and herbs like lemongrass,” explained Ajit Kumar Shasany.

Photo: IANS