December 15:
Union Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Ayush, Shri Prataprao Jadhav, today underscored the critical role of medicinal plant cultivation in empowering farmers, strengthening the AYUSH sector, and conserving biodiversity, while chairing the 2nd meeting of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee of the Ministry of Ayush in New Delhi.
The meeting was attended by Members of Parliament from both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, including Shri Sadanand Mhalu Shet Tanavade, Shri Ashtikar Patil Nagesh Bapurao, and Shri Nilesh D. Lanke, representing diverse political parties. The discussions focused on leveraging medicinal plant cultivation as a sustainable livelihood option for farmers while ensuring the availability of quality raw material for traditional medicines.
Sustainable Cultivation Vital for Quality AYUSH Medicines
Addressing the committee, Shri Prataprao Jadhav stated that the foundation of strong and credible traditional medicine systems lies in the availability of high-quality medicines, which in turn depends on the sustainable supply of quality medicinal plant raw material. He emphasized that ensuring quality at the source leads to improved health outcomes and enhances public trust in AYUSH systems.
The Minister highlighted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Government of India is making sustained efforts to integrate AYUSH systems into the national healthcare framework, with a focus on preventive healthcare, healthy lifestyles, and a sustainable health ecosystem.
National Medicinal Plants Board Driving Farmer-Centric Initiatives
Shri Jadhav highlighted the pivotal role of the National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB), which has been implementing the Central Sector Scheme on “Conservation, Development and Sustainable Management of Medicinal Plants” for the past 25 years. The scheme places special emphasis on Information, Education and Communication (IEC) activities to create awareness and build capacity among farmers across the country.
He informed the committee that during the period 2020–21 to 2024–25, an amount of ₹1161.96 lakh was approved through 139 projects aimed at farmer training and awareness. Additionally, seven Regional-cum-Facilitation Centres are providing technical support to farmers in different regions.
Digital Platforms and Market Linkages
The Minister noted that the “e-Charak” digital platform has significantly strengthened market linkages by directly connecting medicinal plant growers with buyers, thereby improving price realization and reducing dependency on intermediaries. This initiative, he said, has contributed to making medicinal plant cultivation a viable and attractive livelihood option.
Shri Jadhav also referred to the global momentum around millets (Shri Anna) following the United Nations’ declaration of 2023 as the International Year of Millets, noting that similar promotion models could further boost medicinal plant cultivation and farmers’ income.
Role of KVKs and Krishi Vidyapeeths
Emphasizing institutional support, the Minister highlighted the important role played by Krishi Vidyapeeths and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) in empowering farmers. He suggested that these institutions be actively engaged to promote awareness, cultivation techniques, and utilization of medicinal plants, thereby augmenting rural incomes and livelihood opportunities.
Strengthening India’s Global Leadership in Traditional Medicine
Concluding the meeting, Shri Prataprao Jadhav expressed gratitude to the Members of Parliament for their valuable inputs and active participation. He stated that their suggestions would play a crucial role in strengthening AYUSH systems nationwide and enhancing India’s leadership in traditional medicine at the global level.
