New ‘Namoh 108’ Lotus Variety Unveiled by CSIR-NBRI in Honor of Prime Minister Narendra Modi

In a remarkable tribute to the enduring dedication and charisma of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science & Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, today unveiled a new lotus variety named ‘NBRI Namoh 108’. This distinct lotus, cultivated by the CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI) in Lucknow, boasts an extraordinary 108 petals, symbolizing both spiritual significance and a decade of Modi’s leadership as the Prime Minister.

The auspicious unveiling ceremony, held at the CSIR-NBRI premises, marked a significant milestone in the institute’s research endeavors. The ‘Namoh 108’ lotus variety, with its striking visual appeal, pays homage to the revered ‘lotus flower’ and the sacred number ‘108’.

Dr. Jitendra Singh expressed his admiration for the combination of religious and numerical importance that makes this lotus variety truly exceptional. The ‘Namoh 108’ lotus not only bears profound spiritual connotations but also carries rich nutritional value, blooming from March to December.

Of note, this is the first lotus variety to have its entire genome sequenced, enhancing understanding of its unique characteristics and attributes.

Additionally, Dr. Jitendra Singh introduced a range of initiatives and products stemming from the ‘Lotus Mission’, a project conceived to thrive in a mission mode similar to other priority schemes. The Lotus Mission joins an array of efforts, including the National Honey and Bee Mission, National Bamboo Mission, and more, in pursuit of national excellence across various domains.

Among the unveiled products were apparel fashioned from lotus fiber and a fragrance named ‘Frotus’, extracted from the lotus flowers through collaborative efforts between NBRI and FFDC, Kannauj, under the Lotus Research Programme.

Furthermore, an innovative approach towards recycling was demonstrated through the release of herbal colors, derived from temple flower offerings. These colors not only have aesthetic applications but also can be utilized for dyeing silk and cotton fabrics.

Dr. Jitendra Singh also took the opportunity to release the ‘NBRI-Nihar’ variety of Aloe vera, displaying nearly 2.5 times higher gel yield compared to regular Aloe vera. This clonal selection shows enhanced resistance to bacterial and fungal diseases.

The event witnessed the unveiling of various herbal products, including ‘Herbal Cold Drops’ for common cough and cold, Herbal Anti Dandruff Hair Oil, and NBRI-Goutout supplement for gout/gouty arthritis.

In a dynamic showcase of its achievements, NBRI hosted a six-day theme-based event to familiarize stakeholders with its cutting-edge research, technologies, and facilities. This initiative provided a unique platform for stakeholders to witness the institute’s transformative work firsthand.

Dr. Ajit Kumar Shasany, Director of NBRI, expressed gratitude to Dr. Jitendra Singh for introducing ‘One Week One Lab’, which has revolutionized CSIR’s achievements demonstration. An exhibition spotlighting nutra-central byproducts further added to the event’s vibrancy.

As the nation embraces this unique ‘Namoh 108’ lotus variety, it not only commemorates a decade of leadership but also signifies the blossoming of innovation and spirituality in perfect harmony.