Farmers encouraged to cultivate medicinal plants

The Himalayan Forest Research Institute (HFRI), Shimla, organised a four-day capacity building-cum-sensitisation workshop on good practices of medicinal plants. The workshop aimed to equip members of various self-help groups from the Anni Forest Division with advanced techniques for cultivating medicinal plants.

Dr Vaneet Jishtu, Scientist-E and Head of Extension Division, emphasised the importance of conserving medicinal plants in the Himalayan region and promoting scientific cultivation techniques. He highlighted the potential of medicinal plant cultivation as a means of diversification and income generation for farmers. The institute has developed innovative models for intercropping medicinal plants with horticultural crops, optimising land use and maximising profits.

Dr Sushil Kapta, IFS, Consultant JICA and former Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Himachal Pradesh, introduced the Jadi Buti Cell, an initiative dedicated to sensitising communities about the benefits of medicinal plant cultivation. The cell aims to empower farmers to adopt sustainable practices and diversify their livelihoods.

Dr Sandeep Sharma, Director of HFRI, shared the institute’’s success story in guiding Tridev Aushdhiya Sanstha, a local organisation, to obtain good agricultural practices certification. This achievement underscores HFRI’’s commitment to promoting quality standards in medicinal plant cultivation.

Dr GS Goraya highlighted the alarming rate of medicinal plant extinction, with 344 species listed in the Red Data Book, including 62 from the state.