Tripartite MoU Signed to Boost Medicinal Plant Cultivation in Border Villages of Himachal Pradesh.
Initiative to promote Ayurveda and ensure sustainable livelihoods for border communities: Chief Minister.
Shimla:
In a significant step towards strengthening rural livelihoods and reviving traditional Ayurvedic practices, a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed here today between the Indian Army, the Government of Himachal Pradesh and Shree Baidyanath Ayurved, Jhansi. The agreement aims to promote large-scale cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants in selected border and remote villages of the State.
The MoU was signed in the presence of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, who described the initiative as a landmark collaborative effort that would provide sustainable income opportunities to villagers living in border areas while preserving and promoting India’s rich heritage of traditional medicine.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said that Himachal Pradesh has immense potential for the cultivation of medicinal plants due to its favourable climate and diverse geography. He emphasized that the partnership between the Indian Army, the State Government and a reputed Ayurvedic company would ensure scientific cultivation practices, assured marketing and long-term economic benefits for farmers. “This initiative will not only revive traditional Ayurvedic practices but also generate sustainable livelihoods for people residing in remote and border areas of the State,” he added.
The agreement was formally signed by Col. T.S.K. Singh on behalf of the Indian Army, Director AYUSH Rohit Jamwal representing the Government of Himachal Pradesh, and Shailesh Sharma on behalf of Shree Baidyanath Ayurved, Jhansi.
As per the provisions of the MoU, the State AYUSH Department will provide technical know-how and training to farmers on various aspects of medicinal plant cultivation, including best agricultural practices and post-harvest management. Shree Baidyanath Ayurved will ensure assured procurement of the produce at fixed prices, thereby reducing market risks for farmers, and will also supply high-quality seeds or saplings of selected medicinal plants. The Indian Army will support the initiative by conducting training and technical sessions for farmers in border areas, leveraging its logistical strength and outreach in remote regions.
The event was attended by Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi, AYUSH Minister Yadvinder Goma, Secretary AYUSH Priyanka Basu, Lt. General D.G. Mishra, Brigadier Anurag Pandey, along with senior officers of the State Government and the Indian Army.
The initiative is expected to play a crucial role in strengthening the rural economy of border areas, promoting self-reliance among villagers, and contributing to the growth of the Ayurvedic and herbal sector in Himachal Pradesh.
