IWSA Opens Learning Garden Living Museum With 450 Plant Species in Navi Mumbai
The Indian Women Scientists’ Association (IWSA) has opened its Learning Garden Living Museum to citizens, students, and educational institutions at its campus in Navi Mumbai. The initiative offers a hands-on experience in biodiversity conservation and sustainable urban landscaping, supported by the NatConnect Foundation as an outreach partner.
The collaboration aims to introduce the learning garden concept to schools, colleges, housing societies, resident associations, architects, real estate developers, and nature enthusiasts.
Located inside the IWSA campus, the garden features more than 450 plant species, including medicinal, edible, aromatic, and ornamental varieties. The space also includes fruit trees, butterfly-supporting habitats, sensory gardens, sacred groves, and pollinator-friendly landscapes. Sustainable infrastructure such as solar power, rainwater harvesting, composting, and efficient water management systems are integrated across the garden.
Dr Nootan Bhakal, president of IWSA, stated that the living museum brings biodiversity, science, conservation, and education together to help visitors experience nature directly. She noted that the initiative aims to promote environmental awareness through direct observation while making sustainability practical for everyday living.
Priya Jacob, secretary of IWSA, highlighted that the project seeks to foster a sense of shared responsibility for protecting natural habitats among younger generations. She noted that the garden serves as an educational space designed to help visitors explore ecosystems and understand their conservation roles.
B. N. Kumar, director of NatConnect Foundation, said the facility demonstrates how scientifically planned green spaces can be created even within limited urban areas. He stated that the garden can act as a reference model for architects and developers seeking to incorporate biodiversity-friendly greenery into projects ranging from window planters and balconies to rooftop gardens and township landscapes.
To support wider adoption, IWSA has published a reference book titled Creating Learning Gardens & Living Museums: Biodiversity, Conservation & Sustainability. Edited by Vijaya Chakravarty, Sweedle Cerejo-Shivkar, Rita Mukhopadhyaya, Paramjit Anthappan, Seema Das, and Yojana Singh, the book outlines the scientific methodology and practical steps for institutions seeking to replicate the model.
The Learning Garden is open for organised visits by prior appointment for schools, residential groups, and other interested institutions.
