Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site is a global biodiversity hotspot which is home to countless threatened species of plants and animals. Despite this, human activities have disrupted the delicate balance of this eco-sensitive region over the last many decades, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to be aimed at healing the Western Ghats. The Gurukula Botanical Sanctuary in Wayanad, Kerala, has fostered holistic conservation practices in this region since 1981.

My internship at GBS spanned two and a half months, focusing on horticultural practices and educational outreach in biodiversity conservation. This report explores GBS’s unique approach to the conservation of plants, integrating both ex-situ and in-situ methods alongside a strong emphasis on community engagement and educational outreach. The learnings from this internship will guide my future endeavours in advocating for multidimensional conservation strategies, in recognition of the necessity of ecological, social and cultural aspects in conservation. My experience at GBS has been transformative, nurturing a deep sense of connection with nature and inspiring a dedication to sustainable conservation efforts.