The Science Heritage Research Initiative (SHRI), a Union government programme, is extending a helping hand to the traditional enterprises of tribal communities. Taking it up as a major initiative is the renowned Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB), which has launched a major project to support the traditional initiatives of tribal communities in Kerala\u2019s Wayanad district. The SHRI has been rolled out in a bid to preserve the country\u2019s rich tribal heritage and ethnic knowledge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The major objective of the project would be to protect the rich tribal heritage through various scientific interventions with the participation of tribal communities. As part of the participatory approach, tribal self-help groups have been formed in identified locations of Wayanad district, where resources were available and the communities were interested to revamp their tradition and heritage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Taking the project forward, RGCB Director Prof Chandrabhas Narayana inaugurated a lemongrass oil extraction unit at Valad in Thavinjal Panchayat and a paddy processing unit at Peechamkode in Vellamunda Panchayat over the week-end. Prof Narayana also released the \u2018Gau Mithra App\u2019 on cattle diseases and their traditional cures, developed by RGCB\u2019s Tribal Heritage Project team, at a function held at the Paramoola Kurichya tribal family at Peechamkode.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
RGCB, with the financial support of the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, is also making an attempt to preserve this diminishing tradition under the SHRI programme.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Lemongrass oil extraction has been a long-standing enterprise among the tribal communities of Kerala, who reside near the grassland areas of Wayanad and Idukki. By introducing the steam distillation system, the process of extraction becomes more effective, and the unit members will get better economic returns to improve their quality of life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n