Way Forward
Revitalize Cluster-Based Approach:
- Establish and nurture clusters across the Northern Regional states to promote medicinal plant cultivation.
- Focus on the top 20 species prioritized by the National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB) to optimize impact.
- To facilitate the conducting of multi-location trials of selected potential medicinal plants through the accredited Institutes/AUs to recommend the commercial cultivation of target species in the Agroclimatic specific areas.
Address Farmer Incentives:
- Advocate for reinstating subsidies for medicinal plant cultivation to encourage large-scale adoption.
- Facilitate contract farming arrangements to provide farmers with assured markets for their produce.
- Ensure enforcement of Memorandum of Understanding (MOUs) to uphold buy-back agreements.
Strengthen Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs):
- Support the formation and growth of SHGs and FPCs to offer collective resources and guidance to farmers.
- Encourage collaboration among these groups to enhance sustainability and profitability.
Ensure Availability of Certified Quality Planting Material (QPM):
- Work with NMPB to establish standard parameters for developing QPM for various MPs.
- Collaborate with State Medicinal Plants Boards (SMPBs) and other stakeholders to ensure consistent and sufficient supply of QPM.
Consolidate Support for Post-Harvest Management:
- Develop a central facility for Post-Harvest Management to support primary and semi-processing, as well as value addition.
- Provide training and skill development to farmers and stakeholders on post-harvest techniques.
Develop a Robust Market Access Strategy:
- Launch a block chain-enabled e-Auction platform for marketing raw materials and processed products.
- Collaborate with industry associations, AYUSH, and food/nutraceutical industries for contract farming and buy-back arrangements.
Identify and Develop Entrepreneurs in the Medicinal Plant Sector:
- Identify progressive farmers and support aspiring entrepreneurs in establishing value-added businesses.
- Facilitate joint projects with Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), MSMEs, and other stakeholders to promote entrepreneurship in the medicinal plant sector.
Collect Accurate Data on Cultivation:
- Implement Google Form surveys among farmers and stakeholders to gather data on the area covered under cultivation.
- Work with SMPBs and other partners to collect comprehensive data on medicinal plant cultivation.
Emphasis on Core Activities and Achieving Mandate:
- Commit to focusing on core activities as per the NMPB mandate, including the cultivation and marketing of medicinal plants.
- Address any deviations from the mandate and ensure compliance with project requirements.