Empowering Farmers Through Medicinal Plants and Innovation.
Aurangabad:
The Regional-cum-Facilitation Centre (RCFC), Jogindernagar, Himachal Pradesh, under the National Medicinal Plants Board, Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India, organized a one-day training program on value addition and post-harvest practices of medicinal plants in Aurangabad village, Palwal district, Haryana. The program emphasized the knowledge and commercial utilization of medicinal and edible plants.
Dr. Tara Devi Sen, a domain expert, shared detailed insights on how farmers can benefit from cultivating medicinal plants and adding value to their products. She highlighted practical methods to transform these plants into medicinal and commercial products.
During the training, the following medicinal plants and their benefits were discussed:
Palash (Butea monosperma)
Euphorbia hirta (Dudhi)
Ashwagandha
Phyllanthus niruri (Bhumyamalaki)
Moringa
Opuntia (Nagphani)
Dandelion
Livelihood Opportunities for Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
The program showcased millet-based laddoos and biscuits prepared by SHGs from Mandi, incorporating medicinal plants such as Shatavari, Ashwagandha, Giloy, and Kaunch (Mucuna pruriens). These products highlighted the potential of medicinal plants in improving health and income while opening new doors for the marketing and value addition of SHG products.
Dr. Sweta Thakur, Technical Advisor (RCFC NR-1), addressed the gathering by outlining the core objectives and priority areas of RCFC NR-1. She emphasized the importance of training programs to strengthen the value chain of medicinal plants. Dr. Anuja Shukla from Jaipuria Institute of Management, Noida, provided valuable insights into the packaging and marketing strategies of medicinal plant-based products, focusing on market-oriented approaches.
A key highlight of the program was the demonstration by renowned innovator Dharamveer Kamboj of his multipurpose processing machine. He illustrated the preparation of various value-added products such as amla juice, aloe vera gel, turmeric extract, and guava juice. His practical presentation inspired participants to adopt innovative techniques in product development.
Upcoming Workshops
According to official sources, RCFC plans to organize similar workshops in Uttar Pradesh (Mathura) and Himachal Pradesh (Nurpur Bedi) to promote the cultivation, value addition, and marketing of medicinal plants. These workshops will feature Dr. Tara Devi Sen alongside farmer-innovator Dharamveer Kamboj, who will demonstrate his multipurpose processing unit and share insights on preparing various value-added products using this machine.
This initiative marks a significant step toward empowering farmers by integrating traditional knowledge with modern technology, fostering innovation, and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities.
