Kerala tops the state-wise list with 132 species of medicinal plants recommended for cultivation and development by the national medicinal plants board (NMPB), as per updated data in January 2012. However, since the implementation of the 'National Mission On Medicinal Plants' scheme under the NMPB and ministry of AYUSH, in 2009-10, the state has drawn flak for 'ignoring the soil and weather conditions in Kerala' while choosing the species to be cultivated here.
It's against this backdrop that the Kerala State Horticulture Mission (KSHM) demands a change of approach, and it is planning to make use of the state budgetary allocation of Rs 5 crore to promote cultivation of genuine species of medicinal plants, suitable for Kerala's climate and requirements.
"We will bear 50% of the cost of cultivation (rest to be borne by farmers) and propose to establish primary processing units in each district," said KSHM director Dr K Prathapan.
Over the last five years, the KSHM formed 24 clusters of farmers across the state and helped them procure genuine medicinal plant species for cultivation from the nurseries of Kerala Agriculture University (KAU), besides funding around 25 small and large nurseries in both private and public sector. "However, the cost of cultivation, which includes labour charge is very high in Kerala, and the national assistance was just 20% in this regard. We made several requests to increase the financial aid besides giving the freedom to choose suitable species," the KSHM director said.
Though a state-level AYUSH department has been formed now to enable institutions like KSHM to present projects, cultivation of medicinal plants is yet to become its priority.
"Now, with this budgetary allocation, we will be able to bear 50% of the cost of cultivation, which is to be carried out through existing clusters," he added. Establishment of primary processing units, at least one in each district, which will include drying yards and packing system to increase the plants' shelf life, is another priority. The KSHM will seek the expertise of institutions including Aromatic and Medicinal Plants Research Station, under KAU in Odakkali, Ayurveda Research Institute, Poojappura, and State Medicinal Plant Board in implementing the project.
"There's already a considerable awareness among the farmers on the quality of varieties, type of land required and good cultivation practices. But it should be market-linked and we have to ensure that farmers receive a deserving price for their products. There should be a proper buyback system in place with the support of the manufacturers," Prathapan added.
Source : TOI
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