Quality Planting Material: Issues and
Distribution
The availability of certified Quality Planting
Material (QPM) remains a critical aspect in the cultivation of medicinal
plants, requiring attention and strategic planning. Farmers necessitate proper
guidance, direction, and recommendations from institutions like the National
Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB) regarding the procurement and accessibility of
QPM. Despite numerous Cultivars and Varieties developed by esteemed research
institutions such as ICAR, CIMPA, and CSIR, there persists a need for the collection,
multiplication, and dissemination of specific chemotypes and genotypes.
In addressing these challenges, RCFC NR-1 has been
actively engaged, striving to collaborate and find optimal solutions. However,
an issue of concern revolves around the pricing of saplings, where rates fixed
by research institutions vary, and bulk availability remains limited.
Addressing this requires meticulous planning and provision of funds to agencies
involved in QPM generation. The distribution of planting material across states
further underscores the importance of ensuring an adequate supply of high-quality
QPM. Let’s examine the distribution scenario across different states:
Himachal Pradesh:
Significant distributions of Moringa and Ashwagandha
seeds were reported to various beneficiaries, including research institutions,
educational centers, NGOs, and forest offices, totalling 157 kg and 106 kg,
respectively. Additionally, a variety of other medicinal plants were
distributed in varying quantities to further enhance biodiversity and
cultivation practices.
Punjab:
Extensive distributions encompassed various medicinal
plants across Punjab, reaching beneficiaries such as farms, producer companies,
agricultural officers, and academic institutions. The quantities distributed
were substantial, emphasizing the significance of medicinal plant cultivation
in the state.
Haryana:
Beneficiaries in Haryana, including foundations,
individuals, and producers, received distributions of Moringa and Ashwagandha
seeds, totalling 165 kg, aiming to bolster medicinal plant cultivation
initiatives.
Uttarakhand:
Significant distributions of Moringa, Ashwagandha,
and other medicinal plants were made to beneficiaries, including educational
departments and NGOs, reflecting a concerted effort to promote biodiversity and
sustainable cultivation practices.
Uttar Pradesh:
Beneficiaries in Uttar Pradesh received distributions
of Moringa, Ashwagandha, Kalmegh, and Chandan seeds, totaling 51 kg and 1000
plants, emphasizing the importance of QPM availability in supporting medicinal
plant cultivation endeavors.
RCFCNR-1 generously supplied 100,000 saplings of
Shatavari to support the JICA Project, while also providing 42,000 saplings of
Ashwagandha to JK SMPB on their demand.