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India has long been recognized as a hub of knowledge when it comes to the use of medicinal plants for treating various ailments. Acknowledging the significance of the medicinal plant sector on a global scale, India has made efforts to extend its expertise and foster international cooperation and coordination. The National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB), under the Ministry of AYUSH, has taken notable steps towards promoting and supporting the medicinal plant sector worldwide.

Standard Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for Bilateral Collaboration: In order to facilitate global promotion and support for the medicinal plant sector, the NMPB has developed a standard ‘Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for Bilateral Collaboration in the Field of Medicinal Plants.’ This MoU serves as a framework that can be tailored to suit the specific collaboration requirements of different countries. It enables India to establish partnerships with other nations, ensuring mutual benefits and the exchange of knowledge and resources.

Supporting International Cooperation: Under the Central Sector Scheme, the NMPB extends support to various activities that contribute to international cooperation in the medicinal plant sector. These activities are guided by the scheme’s guidelines and include:

  1. Participation in International Meetings: The NMPB encourages participation in meetings of relevant international agencies. This allows India to engage with global stakeholders, share its expertise, and learn from the experiences of other countries.

  2. Exchange Visits: Experts in the field of medicinal plants undertake exchange visits to countries of interest, particularly those with similar biogeography as India. These visits foster collaboration, facilitate knowledge sharing, and strengthen research and development efforts.

  3. International Seminars and Exhibitions: The NMPB sponsors participation in renowned international seminars and exhibitions focused on botanicals worldwide. This support extends to industry representatives, enabling them to showcase their products, explore markets, and build international networks.

  4. Information Centers: To disseminate knowledge about medicinal plants, the NMPB promotes the establishment of information centers in Indian Missions abroad. These centers serve as hubs for information exchange, connecting researchers, practitioners, and policymakers from different countries.

  5. Financial Assistance for International Certification: The NMPB provides financial assistance to individuals and organizations seeking international certification for medicinal plant products. This support facilitates compliance with global quality standards and expands market access.

  6. Market Promotion Activities: The NMPB subsidizes specific market promotion activities such as product registrations, affirmation of Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status, international certifications, and positive listing of Indian botanicals in importing countries. These initiatives enhance the visibility and marketability of Indian medicinal plant products worldwide.

  7. Addressing Regulatory Issues: The NMPB takes steps to resolve issues related to the illogical banning of botanical ingredients by certain international regulatory bodies. By advocating for evidence-based regulations, India aims to ensure fair trade practices and preserve traditional medicinal knowledge.

  8. Commissioning Studies: Recognizing the scarcity of knowledge about international regulations in the medicinal plant sector, the NMPB commissions studies to gain a better understanding of global regulatory frameworks. This knowledge helps India navigate international markets and compliance requirements effectively.

Conclusion: India’s efforts to promote international cooperation and coordination in the medicinal plant sector demonstrate its commitment to leveraging its rich knowledge and resources for the global benefit. Through initiatives such as the MoU framework, participation in international forums, and support for market promotion activities, India strives to foster collaboration, strengthen the sector, and expand the reach of its medicinal plant-based solutions worldwide. By engaging with other nations and sharing its expertise, India aims to contribute to the development of sustainable and accessible healthcare solutions for all.

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