Forest institute suggests methods to save Bodhi tree

Scientists of the Forest Research Institute here have said the ongoing treatment of the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, considered sacred by millions of Buddhists world over, should be discontinued immediately.

Scientists of the Forest Research Institute (FRI) here have said the ongoing treatment of the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, considered sacred by millions of Buddhists world over, should be discontinued immediately.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar had requested the FRI, a premier forest research institute, to determine the reasons behind the ill health of the sacred tree and suggest measures to protect it.

FRI scientists in their report submitted to the District Magistrate of Bodh Gaya listed the reasons for the poor state of the tree and also suggested methods for its upkeep. “The tree is weak and we have given a report of our findings to the Bihar Government,” Dr NSK Harsh, a senior FRI scientist involved in the work told The Indian Express.

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The tree was attacked by the milibug disease, a common plant ailment, in early 2000 and agriculture scientists of a Bihar university treated it. But FRI in its report said the treatment suggested by the university should be discontinued immediately. “We have suggested that the past treatment be discontinued besides decreasing the pressure of people near the tree,” Harsh said.

The three-member team of FRI scientists including Harsh, Subhas Nautiyal (tree physiologist) and Ram Dayal (tree preservation scientist) had gone to Bodh Gaya to examine the tree.

“Since it is a sacred tree, most of the pilgrims want to take away its leaves. But we have recommended as little movement as possible near the tree. And harsh lights should also be avoided,” Harsh added.