Kerala woman earns patents for unique lotus varieties developed on her rooftop

In the heart of Pathanamthitta in Kerala, a flourishing terrace garden has achieved a prestigious national milestone. Ajitha K V, a dedicated horticulturist, has successfully developed several unique lotus varieties from her rooftop, two of which—‘Mayuri’ and ‘Panineer’—have recently been granted intellectual property protection.

This recognition comes from the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers' Rights Authority, a statutory body under the Union Ministry of Agriculture. These patented blooms are the culmination of years of meticulous experimentation with diverse tubers and pollen cross-breeding.

Ajitha’s rooftop sanctuary is a masterclass in urban farming, boasting an astonishing 75 flower varieties. Among these are 15 unique creations birthed from her own research. Her success story highlights how passion and scientific curiosity can transform a domestic terrace into a hub for agricultural innovation, earning official accolades from the highest levels of the Indian government.
 

PTI