TEAM

This initiative is spearheaded by a distinguished team of researchers with a shared passion for preserving indigenous knowledge.

The project is led by Dr. P. Deepalakshmi, the Principal Investigator, who is a Professor in Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) and the Dean of the School of Computing at the Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education, Krishnankoil, Tamil Nadu. Her expertise lies in leveraging computational technologies to address real-world challenges.

Supporting her as Co-Principal Investigators are Dr. R. Murugan and Dr. M. Ayyanar, both of whom bring a wealth of botanical knowledge to the project. Dr. Murugan, an Assistant Professor at the Centre for Research and Postgraduate Studies in Botany, Ayya Nadar Janaki Ammal College (Autonomous), Sivakasi, Tamil Nadu, has a deep-seated interest in the cataloging and study of medicinal plants.

Dr. Ayyanar, also a Co-Principal Investigator, serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Botany at A.V.V.M. Sri Pushpam College (Autonomous), Poondi, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. His extensive research on ethnobotany and commitment to documenting traditional knowledge is integral to the project's success.

Together, the ANJAC and the AVVSPC team have conducted more than sixteen field visits, totaling multiple months, to compile firsthand data on 269 plant species and 289 formulations, alongside information on 2,669 plants and 8,378 formulations retrieved from historical and academic sources. Additionally, our collection features photographs of 228 plant species and prepared standard herbarium specimens for 149 species, with 89 of these specimens being digitized for thorough examination in our virtual database. This endeavor not only enhances the documentation of traditional medicinal practices but also supports the preservation and appreciation of indigenous knowledge.