A special event, “Vaidu Sammelan – 2025,” was jointly organized by the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) on Monday 2025 at Priyadarshini Hall in Chandrapur. The programme was inaugurated by Dr Ashok Janabai Ramaji Uike, Minister for Tribal Development, Government of Maharashtra, and Guardian Minister of Chandrapur district. Distinguished guests present on the occasion included Namdev Kirsan, Member of Parliament, Chimur-Gadchiroli; Kishore Jorgewar, MLA, and Karan Devtale, MLA. Other notable attendees included Vinay Gowda, District Collector – Chandrapur; Pulkit Singh, Chief Executive Officer – Zilla Parishad Chandrapur; along with various elected representatives, senior Government officials, medical and botanical experts, and others.

 

The inaugural address was delivered by Dr Prabhu Nath Shukla (IFS), Conservator of Forests and Field Director, Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, who emphasized the interrelation between traditional medical knowledge, biodiversity conservation, and community participation. A book on medicinal plants authored by Dr N P Kapse, Retd. Forest Range Officer; was also released on the occasion. The programme was hosted by Shreya Khadilkar, and the vote of thanks was delivered by Aniruddha Dhage, Assistant Conservator of Forests (Core). The conference provided clear direction towards the documentation of traditional knowledge, sustainable use of medicinal plants, and strengthening healthcare collaboration with tribal communities.