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.