Tulsi to protect Taj Mahal

Wonder herb 'Tulsi', known for its medicinal utilities, will now help protect the Taj Mahal against the ill-effects of environmental pollution. In a joint exercise being undertaken by the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department and Lucknow-based Organic India Private Ltd, one million Tulsi saplings would be planted in the vicinity of the Monument of Love.

Krishan Gupta,u00a0company MD and global CEO, said, "Till now, nearly 20,000 tulsi saplings were planted. Saplings will be planted in nature parks near Taj Mahal and throughout Agra." On being asked why Tulsi was chosen, Gupta said, "It is one of the best plants which purifies the environment. Its cleansing action is due to its property to release high amount of oxygen, which minimises the adverse impact of industrial and refinery emission." Apart from Tulsi, Neem and Peepal can also help in conserving monuments.

Superintending Archaeologist Devkinandan Dimri said, "Tulsi can certainly help in reducing air pollution due to its oxygen releasing property and can help in checking the pollution at the periphery of the monument. By purifying the air, Tulsi can certainly minimise the impact of industrial and refinery emission."

Zonal forest conservator of Agra, R P Bharti said, "plantation had been taken up on a massive scale. We have a target of planting 20 lakh plants within next two months and have asked gram panchayats and schools to join us in this drive."

Tulsi will insulate environment from pollution. "The plant has good absorptive quality, which cleans the air of foul gases," he said.

Agra Divisional Commissioner SN Shukla said, "Tulsi holds a special place in Indian culture and has been referred to as 'Haripriya' in the Puraans. It has proved its medicinal worth over the ages and will certainly help in checking pollution around the monument."