Case Studies
Role of RCFC NR-1 in Supporting Medicinal Plant Cultivation in Patha Kharka, Jhansi (U.P.)
Patha Kharka, a village located in the Bangra Block of Jhansi District, is part of the Bundelkhand Agroclimatic Zone in Uttar Pradesh. Known for its fertile soil, this area has seen a shift from traditional farming to the cultivation of medicinal plants, driven by the current market demand. This change has benefited local farmers through increased income, thanks to crops like Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla), and even Quinoa. Despite this success, RCFC NR-1 found that the village’s farmers face significant challenges in post-harvesting, storage, and drying practices.
Farmers in Patha Kharka have buyback arrangements with companies like Organic India,
Patanjali, and Ayush Herbs. However, their main issue is inadequate storage facilities, forcing them to use unconventional methods such as storing products on terraces covered with polythene sheets or under cow sheds. These practices risk product contamination and reduced quality, raising concerns about marketability.
Challenges Identified by RCFC NR-1:
- Drying Methods: The farmers rely solely on traditional sun drying, lacking access to modern drying facilities.
- Inadequate Storage: Due to a lack of proper storage infrastructure, farmers are forced to store produce in open spaces, risking contamination.
- Limited Market Access: Although there are existing buyback arrangements, the number of companies
procuring herbal products from farmers is limited, restricting growth opportunities.
Solutions and Support Provided by RCFC NR-1:
- RCFC NR-1 made aware the farmers and other stakeholders about an integrated scheme by the National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB) that provides financial assistance for post-harvest infrastructure. This scheme can help address storage and drying issues.
- The farmers expressed interest in contributing personal land to build the necessary infrastructure, demonstrating their commitment to overcoming these challenges.
- RCFC NR-1’s involvement and guidance empowered the farmers to take steps toward improving storage facilities, post-harvest management, and market expansion, leading to a more sustainable and profitable medicinal plant sector in Patha Kharka.
RCFC NR-1’s role in identifying and addressing these issues underscores its commitment to supporting local farmers and fostering the growth of medicinal plant cultivation in the Jhansi region.
RCFC NR-1 Facilitates First-Ever Certification for GAP and GFCP in Medicinal Plants
Sh. Kripal Singh’s interest in medicinal plants traces back to his childhood. Alongside his academic pursuits, he often pondered why people predominantly focused on cultivating fruits and grains, neglecting the potential of medicinal plants. In 2019, a ray of hope emerged when the Ministry of Ayush in North India’s news item appeared newspaper in Joginder Nagar, advocating for the cultivation of medicinal plants. This announcement sparked a new direction and hope within Sh Kripal Singh. Subsequently, he embarked on a journey of bringing plants from the forests and doing his research.
Observing rural farmers extracting wild herbs from forests without adhering to any protocols, Sh Kripal Singh foresaw the impending threat of species extinction. Motivated by this realization, he transitioned towards cultivating medicinal plants to mitigate the risks. Initially starting with experimental plantations, he eventually ventured into Kutki cultivation, inspired by his uncle’s activities in the field.
In 2012, Sh Kripal Singh further honed his skills by attending a three-day training program at Nauni University, where he gained insights into various medicinal plants, including Kutki. Encouraged by newfound knowledge, he began actively educating farmers about the benefits of cultivating medicinal plants. Further training at Dehradun University enriched his expertise, and he initiated group-based activities through the Rohal NGO.
The turning point in Sh Kripal Singh’s journey came in 2016 during a field visit by Team RCFC NR-1 to the Herbal Garden in Dumrera. Meeting provided Sh Kripal Singh with an opportunity to share his work and aspirations. RCFC guidance led to the registration of the Tridev Medicinal
Plant Production Farmer Society under the Rohal NGO, enabling collaborative efforts with farmers.
Tridev Aushdiya Podh Utpadak Farmer Group, Rohal, Himachal Pradesh, Makes History with First-Ever Certification for Good Agriculture Practices (GAP) & Good Field Collection Practices (GFCP) on Medicinal Plants. The certification, bearing the Certificate No. QCI/PADD/VCSMPP/Aditi 1230628-0108MPGFCP and No. 230628-10 MP-01GAP, covers a substantial area under cultivation and
collection. Specifically, the area covered under cultivation (GAP) certification spans 40 hectares, involving 94 farmers, with Kutki and Atish as the primary crops. Meanwhile, the area covered under collection (GFCP) certification extends to 60 hectares, engaging 74 farmers, with Sugandhwala, Chora, Mahameda, Dhoop & Chukri being the focal crops. Mr. Kripal of Tridev Aushdiya Podh Utpadak Farmer Group expressed his gratitude, stating, “This certification is a testament to our unwavering commitment to sustainable agricultural and field collection practices of Medicinal Plants. We are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of quality and sustainability stewardship.” The certification is valid from February 29, 2024, to February 28, 2027.
Mr. Om Prakash “An Educationist -Herbs & Shrubs Expert-Passionate Environmentalist”
Om Prakash, a revered figure with a profound dedication to environmental conservation and education, embarked on a journey that transformed him into an inspirational beacon for many. His narrative, rooted in a small village, bloomed through his tireless efforts and culminated in receiving a National Award from former President Mrs. Pratibha Patil, an accolade that symbolizes his exceptional contributions.
With a career spanning over three decades as an educationist, Om Prakash’s life is a tapestry of dedication to Punjabi literature, environmental conservation, and an unwavering passion for herbal medicine. His academic prowess is underpinned by degrees in Punjabi, History, Education, and Urdu, which he brilliantly leveraged to inspire students and the broader community towards greener, more sustainable living practices.
Om Prakash’s journey is marked by significant milestones, notably his involvement in authoring insightful articles, editing educational booklets, and actively participating in over 40 workshops nationwide. These workshops, which covered vital topics from global warming to wildlife conservation, served as platforms for him to disseminate knowledge on environmental stewardship and herbal medicine cultivation. His role as a consultant with the Department of Forest in Punjab led to the creation of 232 herbal gardens, a testament to his commitment to biodiversity conservation and herbal medicine. As a coordinator and principal coordinator for Eco Clubs within the Chandigarh Administration, Om Prakash was instrumental in fostering environmental awareness among students. His initiative to establish herbal gardens in educational institutions across Chandigarh and Punjab not only promoted indigenous medicinal plants but also served as a hands-on learning experience for students. His vision came to fruition with the establishment of a medicinal plant seed Herbarium in 2018, a project that captures his dedication to preserving rare and native plant species.
Om Prakash’s innovative approach extended to crafting natural Holi colors from plant materials, advocating for organic manure production long before it became a mainstream practice. His foresight and commitment to sustainable practices were evident in his early efforts to promote eco-friendly living through various initiatives, including a significant plant distribution program that contributed to a greener Chandigarh.
In his roles, especially as a Consultant for the National Ayush Green Mission and the Green Mission Punjab, and as a Regional Environment Coordinator for Vidya Bharti, Om Prakash has tirelessly worked towards promoting herbal gardens and nurseries, emphasizing the cultivation and conservation of medicinal plants. His unfinished dreams and vision for a sustainable future continue to inspire, focusing on expanding educational initiatives, promoting indigenous herbal medicine, and fostering community-based environmental stewardship.
Om Prakash’s legacy reflects his life’s work: a blend of education, environmental conservation, and a deep-seated belief in the power of community engagement. His story, marked by accomplishments and an undying passion for nature, serves as a guiding light for future generations, encouraging a more sustainable, environmentally conscious world.