10,000 Ashwagandha Plants Planted in Bhati Mines: Joint Initiative by AIIA and 132 Infantry Battalion
The All India Institute of Ayurveda and the 132 Infantry Battalion have launched an Ashwagandha plantation and scientific research project in Bhati Mines, South Delhi.
The All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), New Delhi, and the 132 Infantry Battalion (Territorial Army) Eco Rajput have launched an Ashwagandha plantation and research initiative at the Terriers Herbal Garden located in Bhati Mines, South Delhi. The program, held on September 24, 2026, was led by Prof. (Vaidya) Pradeep Kumar Prajapati, Director of AIIA, and Colonel Mohan Singh, Commanding Officer of the 132 Infantry Battalion (Territorial Army) Eco Rajput.
Under this joint initiative, plans have been made for the planting and regular scientific monitoring of 10,000 Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal) plants. This project combines AIIA's expertise in medicinal plants and scientific research with the 132 Infantry Battalion's ground experience in biodiversity conservation and environmental restoration. Along with the plantation, the growth of the plants will be observed and documented, which will provide important information regarding the adaptation of Ashwagandha to the local climate of the Aravalli region.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. (Vaidya) Pradeep Kumar Prajapati stated that this initiative links Ayurvedic knowledge with scientific research and ecological restoration. He added that the systematic cultivation and scientific documentation of Ashwagandha can contribute to knowledge creation and biodiversity conservation.
The Bhati Mines area is part of Delhi's Southern Ridge and the Aravalli landscape, where the 132 Infantry Battalion is working on green restoration in areas affected by mining. The Terriers Herbal Garden already conserves approximately 200 medicinal species, including Harsingar, Amla, and Ghritkumari (Aloe Vera). AIIA will now provide technical cooperation for the scientific management and maintenance of this garden.
The program was attended by Dr. Meena Devgade, Head of the Department of Dravyaguna at AIIA, Associate Professor Dr. Shivani Ghildiyal, Assistant Professor Dr. Vidhan Mahajan, PhD scholars, as well as military officers and personnel. Major Jai Singh Shekhawat and Major (Dr.) Ashish Kumar played key roles in coordinating this initiative.
Notably, the National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB) under the Ministry of Ayush has also launched the campaign “Ashwagandha—A Health Promoter.” The current initiative aims to develop an eco-friendly ecosystem by linking medicinal research with environmental restoration.
