Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Botanic Garden
LOCATION: Howrah, West Bengal, India
APPLICANT: Anjana Das, on behalf of IRIS World Consultancy, Asia-Scotland Trust and University of Edinburgh
At over 230 years old, the Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden, has the largest variety of species in Asia. In recent years it has sadly fallen into neglect compounded by the disastrous cyclone Amphlan in March 2020 which brought down hundreds of magnificent trees, adding an additional urgency to its need for regeneration. A vision to restore it is now proposed to ensure that this exceptional horticultural, scientific, heritage and cultural collection is protected for future generations. As part of the team of interns working on the project in conjunction with the University of Edinburgh and Asia-Scotland Trust, we were delighted to receive this application from Anjana Das.
JUDGES’ COMMENTS
·We recognise that it is vitally important to restore this magnificent botanic garden and highlight this unique resource to new audiences. We also wish to acknowledge its significance to international botanical research; as a local resource; and for its ecological and environmental significance. As a panel, we commend the project’s onsultation with local communities. and its links with experts and stakeholders around the world.
The judges were particularly pleased to see how the project emphasises the environmentally and culturally productive use and care of the landscape resources; supporting pride, confidence and health for local communities; and utilising local and traditional knowledge in its development and restoration.