CSIR-IHBT empowers tribal farmers with aroma mission

In a major step towards promoting sustainable agriculture, rural development and livelihood generation in tribal areas of Himachal Pradesh, the CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (CSIR-IHBT), Palampur, organised a series of one-day training and awareness programmes on medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) from June 16 to 20. These were held under the CSIR Aroma Mission Phase III and spanned across Chamba, Kullu and Kinnaur districts.

Addressing the media, CSIR-IHBT Director Dr Sudesh Kumar Yadav and Chief Scientist & Co-Nodal Officer of the Aroma Mission, Dr Rakesh Kumar, highlighted the initiative’s focus on transforming tribal agriculture through innovation. The programmes aimed to equip small-scale tribal farmers with scientific knowledge, modern cultivation practices and entrepreneurial skills, enabling climate-resilient farming and enhanced economic self-reliance.

The training series began on June 16 in Samra village, Bharmour (Chamba district), a region identified as an aspirational district.

Conducted in collaboration with the Horticulture Department of Himachal Pradesh, the programme trained 40 farmers (25 men and 15 women) in MAP cultivation, post-harvest techniques, and market linkages. Seeds and planting material were also distributed to encourage immediate adoption.

On June 17, a hands-on session in Suppa village (Bharmour) focused on the cultivation of Tagetes minuta (aromatic marigold) and other locally suited crops. Practical field demonstrations were also included. The outreach continued on June 19 in Kullu, with a special session for farmers from the cold desert regions of Lahaul & Spiti. In collaboration with the Agriculture Department, farmers were trained in MAP varieties suited to their agro-climatic conditions and were provided with seeds and technical inputs.

“These training programmes reflect CSIR-IHBT’s commitment to tribal empowerment, biodiversity-based farming, and supporting national goals like doubling farmers’ income,” Dr Yadav affirmed.