Kozhikode: The ICAR–Indian Institute of Spices Research (ICAR-IISR) and the Government Homoeopathic Medical College, Kozhikode, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance research in medicinal plants and promote sustainable agricultural practices. The agreement was signed by Dr. R. Dinesh, Director, ICAR-IISR, and Dr. Mansoor Ali, Principal, Government Homoeopathic Medical College, Kozhikode, with the aim of promoting joint research and academic collaboration. Dr. B. Rithesh, Medical Superintendent; Dr. T.P. Arunakrishnan; Dr. E.R. Vineetha; and scientists from ICAR-IISR, including Dr. T.E. Sheeja, Dr. Srinivasan and Dr. Eshwara Bhat, among others, attended the ceremony.
The partnership aims to strengthen evidence-based research by integrating areas such as conservation of medicinal plants, quality assessment, pharmacognosy, phytochemistry and biotechnology. The initiative is also expected to provide a scientific foundation for the concept of ‘Agro-Homoeopathy’, which explores the practical applications of homoeopathy in agriculture. Research under the collaboration will focus on developing low-cost and environmentally friendly approaches for crop protection, seed germination, enhancing crop productivity, soil conservation and improving the resilience of crops to climate change.
The collaboration is expected to benefit students, faculty members, scientists and researchers from both institutions while opening new possibilities in organic farming and climate-resilient agricultural practices. The initiative will also facilitate the development of natural solutions and technologies that can help reduce agricultural production costs and provide practical benefits to farmers.
