A Correspondent
Pasighat, Sep 23: The 11th Ayurveda Day was observed at the College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University (I), Pasighat, with emphasis on Ayurveda, medicinal and aromatic plants, traditional knowledge, healthcare and opportunities in herbal entrepreneurship.
The programme was organised by the All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants & Betelvine. Students, faculty members and farmers participated in the programme and were apprised of the health, agricultural and commercial potential of medicinal plants.
Speaking on the occasion, College of Agriculture Dean Dr Sanjay Swami said Ayurveda addresses both physical and mental well-being and promotes living in harmony with nature. He said the observance provided an opportunity to reconnect with traditional knowledge and understand the role of medicinal plants and natural resources in promoting a balanced lifestyle.
Dr Imli Kumba highlighted the traditional uses and potential of medicinal plants including Aparni, Ashwagandha, Shankhapushpi, Brahmi, Jatamansi, Tulsi, Vacha, Yashtimadhu and Shatavari. He stressed that health encompasses mental and physical well-being and discussed the traditional associations of these plants with various aspects of health.
Addressing farmers, Dr Kumba highlighted opportunities under the Central Sector Scheme for Conservation, Development and Sustainable Management of Medicinal Plants. He encouraged farmers to explore medicinal-plant cultivation, contract farming and organised markets, while stressing the need to understand market demand and buyer requirements before undertaking commercial cultivation.
He also highlighted e-Charak as a digital platform that can facilitate market access for medicinal-plant producers. Skill development and entrepreneurship opportunities, including training in preparation of value-added herbal products such as hair oils and gels, were also discussed.
Speaking on herbal market utilisation, Darga Taipodia emphasised the need to move beyond the sale of raw medicinal plants through scientific identification, responsible collection and cultivation, proper drying, processing and packaging.
He stressed the importance of branding and digital marketing in taking local herbal products to wider markets. Using herbal tea as an example, he said packaging can communicate the origin, culture and traditional significance of a product while enhancing its market value.
The programme highlighted the potential of medicinal plants and Ayurveda not only in traditional healthcare but also in sustainable agriculture, entrepreneurship, employment and local economic development. It concluded with an emphasis on linking traditional knowledge with scientific practices, value addition and modern market opportunities for sustainable development of medicinal and aromatic plants in the region.