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Hydro Tourism

The potential for developing hydro tourism in Himachal Pradesh, similar to the successful model implemented in Kerala, is indeed substantial. Himachal Pradesh, known for its breathtaking landscapes, pristine rivers, and abundant hydroelectric projects, presents an ideal setting for the integration of tourism with hydel projects. However, despite the evident advantages and the successful precedent set by Kerala, the state has yet to fully capitalize on this opportunity.

Himachal Pradesh boasts numerous hydel projects, ranging from large dams to smaller installations, scattered across its picturesque valleys and mountains. These projects have not only contributed significantly to the state’s power generation but have also created vast reservoirs and water bodies amidst stunning natural surroundings. Leveraging these assets for tourism could unlock tremendous economic and developmental benefits for the region.

One of the key aspects of the Kerala model that Himachal Pradesh could emulate is the holistic approach towards hydel tourism. Kerala’s initiative not only focuses on providing tourists with scenic boat rides but also emphasizes environmental conservation and safety measures. By adopting a similar approach, Himachal Pradesh can ensure sustainable tourism practices that preserve the fragile ecosystems surrounding hydel projects while offering visitors a unique and memorable experience.

Furthermore, the establishment of dedicated tourism centers, like the Kerala Hydel Tourism Centre (KHTC), could serve as catalysts for the growth of hydro tourism in Himachal Pradesh. These centers could offer a range of activities such as boating, nature walks, birdwatching, and cultural experiences, tailored to suit the diverse interests of tourists.

Moreover, promoting hydel tourism could also lead to the development of ancillary services and infrastructure in remote areas, thereby generating employment opportunities and fostering socio-economic growth. Local communities could benefit from increased tourism-related revenue, leading to improved livelihoods and standards of living.

In terms of implementation, Himachal Pradesh could learn from Kerala’s phased approach to hydel tourism development, prioritizing environmental conservation and community engagement. Collaborative efforts between the government, the private sector, and local communities will be essential to ensure the success and sustainability of hydel tourism initiatives in Himachal Pradesh.

Overall, embracing hydel tourism presents Himachal Pradesh with a unique opportunity to harness its natural resources for economic development while safeguarding its environment and heritage. By drawing inspiration from successful models like Kerala’s, Himachal Pradesh can chart a course towards sustainable and inclusive tourism growth, benefiting both residents and visitors alike.

GLOBAL AYURVEDA FESTIVAL

On the 4th day of the Global Ayurveda Festival, Dr. Arun Chandan, Regional Director, NMPB, Ministry of Ayush, delivered a compelling presentation on the burgeoning demand for medicinal plants within the health sector. #GAF2023 #GlobalAyurvedaDay pic.twitter.com/LjN3Loc5W1

— Ministry of Ayush (@moayush) December 4, 2023

जौ, बाजरा की रोटी खाओ

शास्त्रों के  सटीक !

जौ, बाजरा की रोटी खाओ ‘शूगर’ को भगाओ

डा अरुण चन्दन

भारत के जिस ज्ञान का डंका पूरी दुनियां में बजता है वोह सारा ज्ञान हमारे शास्त्रों, ग्रंथों से तो प्रसारित हुआ है. उठाइए भारत सरकर के अनुसन्धान संसथानों के शोध कार्यों के पेटेंट का डाटाबेस, अनुसन्धान के कामों को देख कर लगता है की हर जगह लोगों के ज्ञान, सूझबूझ की चोरी होती है या शास्त्रों के ज्ञान को तोड़ मरोड़ कर शोध कर्यों को अमलीजामा पहनाया जाता है. खैर आज के युग में तो लोगों को ठीक होने से मतलब है ज्ञान का स्रोत कोई भी हो. बौधिक सम्पदा अधिकारों का मकडजाल इतना गंभीर है, देश के ज्ञान को लुप्त पराय होने के कगार पर ला कर खड़ा कर दिया है.

आजकल हर घर में डायबिटीस याने मधुमेह याने शूगर के रोगी आमतौर पर मिलने लग गये है. शास्त्रों का कथन है शुगर कर से ख़त्म हो सकती यदि कुछ ख़ास रोटी का सेवन किया जाये. दूध, दही से पूरा हो परहेज, न ज्यादा सोना न लेटना न ही ज्यादा बैठना. अभ्रक भस्म का शहद के साथ करें सेवन और रात को सोते समय १ तोला याने १० ग्राम त्रिफला चूर्ण सादे जल के साथ किया जाये सेवन. चैत्र (मार्च-अप्रैल) से भाद्रपद (अगस्त-सितम्बर) महीने तक जौ की रोटी और आश्विनसे  महीने(अक्टूबर) से फाल्गुन (मार्च) मास तक बाजरे की रोटी ही खाएं , मूंग की दाल, मेथी की सब्जी पालक, बथुआ और चोलाई का शाक इत्यादि का श्रध्दापूर्वक सेवन करें तो शूगर का रोग मिट भी सकता है. धर्मशास्त्रों में इसे अनियमित और स्वछन्द योनाचार के कारण भी उत्पन्न हुआ मानते हैं जिस का उपाय प्रायश्चित करना कहा गया है लिहाजा इस के होने के तो अनेकों कारण हैं फिर भी यदि शास्त्रों के सूत्र नैतिकता के साथ कुदरत के पास रहने को प्रेरित कर सके तो क्या बात है.  

Hydro Tourism & Hydro Parks: Learning from Kerala – A Call for Himachal Pradesh

In my travels across various regions, both within India and abroad, it has been a source of consistent surprise that Himachal Pradesh has not fully embraced globally observed best practices in the development sector. My recent visit to Kerala shed light on a commendable initiative that Himachal has yet to consider – Hydro Tourism and Hydro Parks. This innovative concept, under the auspices of the Kerala State Electricity Board, seamlessly integrates environmental conservation with power planning, aligning itself with a vision for the sustained well-being of fragile ecosystems. It also presents a unique opportunity to educate students about electricity production, offering a potential avenue for local, small-scale initiatives and income generation through tourism.

Hydel Tourism, successfully implemented in Kerala, taps into the tourism potential of hydropower project areas. It is a unique model that transforms these areas into tourist attractions, considering safety and security aspects while preserving the interests of the Hydel Power Generation utility. Initiated in 2000, this concept has flourished from a single center in Munnar to nine centers across the state, showcasing a commitment to responsible development.

The Kerala Hydel Tourism Centre (KHTC), a unit of the Kerala State Electricity Board Ltd, focuses on the effective utilization of water-based tourism potential while safeguarding the ecology of the area. The power department’s foray into the tourism sector in Kerala in 2000 has evolved into more than ten Hydel tourist centers, organizing activities such as dam visits, power house tours, and boat trips to attract tourists.

Some of the prominent Hydro Tourism destinations in Kerala include Kakkayam Dam, Adyanpara in Malappuram, Idukki Dam, Munnar Hydel Park, Munnar Echo Point, Shenkulam Dam, Anayirangal Dam, Kundala Dam, Sun Moon Valley in Mattupetti, and Banasura Sagar Dam.

Started in Munnar in 1999 and Wayanad in 2000, KHTC has brought socio-economic benefits to remote areas by promoting tourism and utilizing water bodies maintained by the KSE Board Ltd. Boating operations around water bodies in Idukki, Wayanad, Kozhikode, and Thrissur have been successfully implemented.

As we contemplate the water bodies in Himachal Pradesh and the hydropower projects that grace our landscape, it is time for us to learn from the success of Hydro Tourism in Kerala. By adopting such innovative models, we can not only promote tourism but also ensure the sustainable and responsible utilization of our natural resources. Let’s draw inspiration from the experiences of other regions and work towards unlocking the untapped potential of Hydro Tourism in Himachal Pradesh for the benefit of our state and its people.

Call for Collaboration – Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Sector and Traditional Medicine

Are you passionate about the dynamic world of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants? Are you interested in contributing to the supply chain components, revival of traditional medicine, the use of single herbs for food supplements, nutraceuticals, authentic botanicals, traceability, Good Field and Collection Practices (GFCP), Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), entrepreneurship, end-to-end solutions, Certification of Traditional Healers, innovations, product development, Ayurvedic Ahar, and all other aspects related to Medicinal Plants? If your answer is a resounding “yes,” then we have an exciting opportunity for you to explore.

I am on the lookout for a highly motivated and qualified candidate to join me and my team. We are seeking individuals with qualifications in Botany, Chemistry, Ayurveda, or any other relevant field who are eager to embark on a rewarding career journey in the Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Sector. You will have the chance to work with me and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of this sector.

Key Responsibilities:
As a member of our team, you will have the opportunity to engage in various facets of the Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Sector, including:

Supply Chain Management: Contribute to developing and optimizing the supply chain for medicinal plants and phyto ingredients.

Authentic Botanicals: Ensure the authenticity and quality of botanical resources used in our products.

Traceability: Implement and enhance traceability systems to monitor the sourcing and processing of medicinal plants.

GFCP and GAP: Play a key role in adhering to Good Field and Collection Practices (GFCP) and Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) in the production of herbal materials.

Entrepreneurship: Explore entrepreneurial opportunities within the sector and develop innovative solutions.

End-to-End Solutions: Be involved in all stages of the production process, from cultivation to end-product development.

Certification of Traditional Healers: Work towards certifying and recognizing traditional healers in the field.

Innovations: Drive innovation in product development and processing techniques for Ayurvedic Ahar and medicinal plant-based products.

Qualifications:
We are looking for candidates with the following qualifications and attributes:

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Botany, Chemistry, Ayurveda, or a related field.
A strong passion for and knowledge of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants.
Innovative thinking and problem-solving skills.
Exceptional communication and teamwork abilities.
A drive to excel and create a lasting impact in the sector.

If you are an enthusiastic and dedicated individual eager to craft your career in the Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Sector, we invite you to apply for this unique opportunity.

Interested candidates should submit their resumes and a cover letter highlighting their qualifications, relevant experience, and motivation for joining our team to achandan@hotmail.com

Join us in this exciting journey as we work towards a healthier, more sustainable world through the power of medicinal plants. Your contributions can make a difference, and your career can thrive in this dynamic sector.

For any inquiries or further information, please feel free to contact: 7018001026.

Divya Himachal 24 December 2023

आयुर्वेदिक विशेषज्ञ डॉ अरुण चंदन ने औषधीय पौधों, पर्यावरण संरक्षण तथा पारंपरिक ज्ञान प्रणालियों के बारे में बच्चों को दी विस्तृत जानकारी

– Dainik Savera Times | Hindi News Portal

A Report

Here are the proposed book chapters for a coffee table book highlighting the Regional Cum Facilitation Centre (RCFC) for North Indian States of the National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB):

Chapter 1: Introduction

An Overview of the NMPB and Its Mission
The Significance of Medicinal Plants in India
Introduction to the Regional Cum Facilitation Centre (RCFC) for North Indian States

Chapter 2: The RCFC Mandate

One-Stop Shop for Medicinal Plants in North India
Facilitating the Value Chain: From Collection to Marketing
Supporting NMPB's Vision and Mandate

Chapter 3: Research Initiatives

Research Activities in the North Region
Advancing Agro-Technology for Medicinal Plants
Domestication and Varietal Development

Chapter 4: Capacity Building and Training

Empowering Stakeholders: Growers, Collectors, and More
Workshops, Seminars, and Training Initiatives
Managerial and Technical Skill Development

Chapter 5: Conservation and Sustainability

Strategies for Conservation of Medicinal Plants
Sustainable Cultivation Practices
Technology Upgradation

Chapter 6: Marketing and Sale

Resolving Demand-Supply Challenges
Developing Marketing Facilities
Minimum Support Price Initiatives

Chapter 7: Collaboration and Networking

Collaboration with Local Stakeholders and Organizations
Bringing Together Medicinal Plant Stakeholders
Formulating Project Proposals and Prioritizing Initiatives

Chapter 8: Information, Education, and Communication (IEC)

The Role of IEC in Medicinal Plant Sector Development
Implementing IEC Strategies
Dissemination of Information and Success Stories

Chapter 9: Database Management

Collecting and Maintaining Medicinal Plant Data
Integration of Regional Databases
Ensuring Data Accessibility and Utilization

Chapter 10: Monitoring and Evaluation

Project Review and Evaluation
Ensuring Accountability and Impact Assessment
The Role of RCFC in Project Oversight

Chapter 11: Success Stories

Documenting and Showcasing Successful Initiatives
Inspiring Others with Real-Life Examples
Impact of RCFC and NMPB Support

Chapter 12: Future Outlook

The Road Ahead for Medicinal Plants in North India
The Role of RCFC in Shaping the Future
Challenges and Opportunities

Chapter 13: Conclusion

The Vital Role of RCFC in the Medicinal Plant Sector
The Collaborative Effort to Promote Holistic Healthcare
Building a Sustainable and Prosperous Future

This coffee table book would serve as a valuable resource for understanding the role and impact of the RCFC in the North Indian States and its contribution to the medicinal plant sector’s growth and sustainability. It would also highlight the importance of traditional knowledge, conservation efforts, and collaborative initiatives in promoting holistic healthcare practices.

Herbal State Himachal Pradesh: Livelihood, Bioresources, and Carbon Crediting

In our quest to transform Himachal Pradesh into a thriving hub for herbal resources, livelihood, and sustainable practices, we have outlined a comprehensive strategy. This initiative, aimed at creating a “Sukhi Himachal” (Happy Himachal), is a result of collaboration between the State Biodiversity Board, MSME sector, and AYUSH systems. Here are some key highlights:

Biodiversity Conservation and Awareness:

Establish herbal gardens and parks across Himachal Pradesh to showcase the rich diversity of medicinal plants.
These gardens serve as educational hubs for both tourists and locals.
Implement DNA barcoding and QR coding to enhance plant identification and traceability.
Introduce high-value medicinal plants like Maca and Mulethi to diversify resources.

Public Awareness Campaigns:

Launch public awareness campaigns highlighting the benefits of herbal products.
Utilize various media channels, including radio, television, and social media, to reach a wider audience.

Herbal Tourism Promotion:

Promote Ayurvedic and herbal tourism to attract visitors seeking natural healing and wellness experiences.
Collaborate with Ayurvedic resorts and wellness centers to develop attractive packages that emphasize local herbal   practices.

Supporting Entrepreneurs:

Establish incubation centers in each block to support entrepreneurs in developing and marketing herbal products.
Provide mentoring, funding, and infrastructure to encourage the growth of herbal-based businesses.

Convergence and Livelihood Linkages:

Collaborate with schemes like MNREGA-Mahak-JICA to link rural development with livelihood opportunities.
Promote traditional foods through "Ayurvedic Ahar."

International Collaboration:

Explore international collaborations, such as with Germany's Prof. Dr. Ranjeet Bhardwaj, who has expressed interest in buying and providing technical inputs for Cannabis products.
Attract foreign investments in bio-valleys and Cannabis-related products and processing.

Blockchain-Enabled E-Auction Platform:

Introduce a single scheme, featuring a blockchain-enabled e-auction platform.
Implement a Maximum Selling Price for quality produce against minimum support prices.
Ensure mutually beneficial sharing with farmers, with 4% of platform profits shared with the Government of Himachal Pradesh.

Quality Assurance and Certification:

Establish a lab network using Spectrometry and NIR technology for quality checks at the source.
Work on creating a state-owned Certification Agency in collaboration with Quality Council of India and SGS.
Strengthen forward linkages and provide higher prices to farmers.

Conservation and Education:

Launch conservation initiatives to protect endangered and rare medicinal plant species.
Integrate herbal education into school and college curricula.
Conduct workshops and training programs for farmers to promote sustainable cultivation.

Research and Development:

Revive research in Ayurveda and Medicinal Plants, focusing on potential species found in Himachal.
Invest in R&D to discover new uses and benefits of herbal products.
Invite investment in research and development and consider converting Jogindernagar Research Institute into an International Institute for Ayurveda and Medicinal Plants Research.
Initiate international courses in economic aspects of medicinal plants, including MSc, PG courses, and skill development programs.

This holistic approach aims to not only harness Himachal Pradesh’s abundant bioresources but also enhance the livelihoods of its people while promoting sustainable and responsible practices. Together, we can build a ” New Himachal” that thrives on the strength of its herbal heritage.

Dr. Arun Chandan’s Thoughts on LokAyurveda

Dr. Arun Chandan is a prominent figure in the field of Ayurvedic Medicine and Medicinal Plant Research, known for his dedication to preserving traditional knowledge and advancing the cause of traditional medicine. One of his notable initiatives is LokAyurveda, which reflects his visionary thoughts and commitment to promoting and safeguarding traditional knowledge, intellectual property rights, and product development.

LokAyurveda, as envisioned by Dr. Chandan, represents a multifaceted approach to the world of Ayurveda and traditional medicine. Here are some key thoughts and principles associated with Dr. Chandan’s LokAyurveda initiative:

Preservation of Traditional Knowledge: Dr. Chandan places a strong emphasis on the preservation of traditional knowledge related to Ayurveda and other traditional medicinal systems. He recognizes the immense value of the wisdom passed down through generations and seeks to document, validate, and safeguard this knowledge for the benefit of present and future generations.

Intellectual Property Rights (IPR): Understanding the significance of intellectual property rights, Dr. Chandan is dedicated to ensuring that traditional knowledge and remedies are protected. This involves advocating for IPR to prevent the misappropriation and exploitation of traditional knowledge by external entities.

Product Development: LokAyurveda encourages the development of products rooted in traditional medicine. Dr. Chandan's vision includes leveraging traditional knowledge to create effective, safe, and high-quality Ayurvedic products and remedies. This not only enhances the availability of traditional treatments but also helps in their commercialization.

Community Empowerment: Dr. Chandan's approach extends to empowering local communities. By involving communities in the cultivation, processing, and marketing of traditional medicinal plants and products, LokAyurveda contributes to sustainable livelihoods. This approach ensures that the benefits of traditional medicine reach the grassroots level.

Cultural Preservation: LokAyurveda is not only about healthcare but also about cultural preservation. It acknowledges the cultural significance of traditional medicine and the role it plays in preserving cultural heritage. Dr. Chandan's initiative strives to maintain and celebrate these cultural elements.

Holistic Healthcare: In line with Ayurveda's holistic approach to health, LokAyurveda seeks to provide holistic healthcare solutions that encompass physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. It promotes the idea that traditional medicine is not just about curing ailments but also about maintaining overall health and balance.

Modern and Traditional Integration: Dr. Chandan recognizes the need to integrate traditional knowledge with modern approaches. He envisions a future where traditional medicine and conventional healthcare can complement each other, offering a more comprehensive and effective healthcare system.

Global Outreach: While deeply rooted in Indian traditional medicine, LokAyurveda also has a global outlook. Dr. Chandan's initiative seeks to share the benefits of traditional medicine with a broader audience, contributing to the global wellness movement.

In summary, Dr. Arun Chandan’s LokAyurveda is a visionary and comprehensive initiative that encompasses the preservation of traditional knowledge, intellectual property rights, product development, community empowerment, cultural preservation, and holistic healthcare. It embodies his commitment to preserving and advancing the field of traditional medicine while ensuring that its benefits are accessible to all.

TEA WELLNESS FROM HIMALAYAS: GURNU

Let us discuss a Herbal Infusion or Unique Wellness Tea

Indulge in the exquisite world of herbal teas with our unique offering – Gurnu. Sourced from the pristine Pangi Valley in the Himachal Himalayas, Gurnu is a distinct variety of Jeera, a fragrant herb found in the wild at higher altitudes. This herbal infusion captures the essence of various herbs like flannel, cumin, mint, and lavender, providing a symphony of flavors in every cup.

Gurnu Tisane Tea is more than just a beverage; it’s a journey to natural well-being. With its rich aroma and sweet undertones, this tea is a delightful addition to your daily routine. Beyond its refreshing taste, Gurnu boasts detoxifying properties, cleansing the body of harmful toxins and promoting relaxation. Additionally, its antioxidant-rich nature makes it a valuable companion for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Not just limited to a comforting drink, Gurnu serves multiple purposes. Experiment with its versatile use by adding it to your culinary creations- whether in potatoes, curd, or as a digestive mouth freshener. This pure and organic herbal treasure aids in digestion promotes hair health, and rejuvenates the skin, offering a holistic approach to wellness.

Brewing Gurnu is a simple yet rewarding experience. Follow these steps for a perfect cup:

Instructions for Brewing:

Step 1: Grind Gurnu
Lightly grind the Gurnu and store it in a jar or box.

Step 2: Boil with Water
Boil the ground Gurnu with water, similar to your regular tea. For optimal aroma, let it simmer for 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Honey/Sugar
Enhance the flavor by adding honey or sugar according to your taste, just before serving.

Note: Consume without milk.

Nourish your body and soul with the golden infusion of Gurnu. This healing tea not only elevates your senses but also contributes to a healthier and more vibrant you. Experience the charm of Himalayan wellness in every sip.

Cheers to good health!

SMART Ayurvedic Clinic

We are excited to introduce our state-of-the-art Modern SMART Ayurvedic Clinic. Our commitment to providing the best in traditional Ayurvedic care combined with the latest technological advancements has led to the creation of a clinic that truly stands out in the world of healthcare. We aim to offer you a unique and holistic experience that blends the wisdom of Ayurveda with the convenience of modern technology.

Here are some of the key features that make our clinic a SMART choice for your health and well-being:

1. Telemedicine Consultations: In the digital age, we understand the importance of accessibility and convenience. Our SMART clinic offers telemedicine consultations, allowing you to connect with our Ayurvedic experts from the comfort of your home. You can seek guidance, prescriptions, and follow-ups without the need for in-person visits.

2. Personalized Wellness Plans: Every individual is unique, and so are their health needs. Our SMART clinic utilizes advanced AI and data analysis to create personalized Ayurvedic wellness plans tailored to your specific constitution and health goals. Your journey to well-being is truly personalized.

3. Electronic Health Records (EHR): We maintain detailed electronic health records for all our patients, ensuring that your medical history and treatment plans are always easily accessible to our practitioners. This enhances the continuity of care and facilitates better outcomes.

4. Mobile App Integration: Stay connected with your health at your fingertips. Our clinic offers a dedicated mobile app that lets you schedule appointments, access your health records, receive reminders, and even order Ayurvedic medicines online.

5. Smart Dispensary: Our SMART clinic boasts a fully automated dispensary that ensures precision in herbal formulation preparation. The medicines are dispensed in the right dosages and quantities, maintaining the highest standards of quality and accuracy.

6. Lifestyle and Diet Monitoring: Your journey to holistic well-being extends beyond just herbal remedies. Our clinic monitors your lifestyle choices and dietary habits, providing you with real-time guidance and support for a healthier way of living.

7. Health and Wellness Workshops: We regularly conduct SMART workshops and webinars, where you can gain insights into Ayurveda, learn about health practices, and interact with our Ayurvedic experts. These workshops empower you to take control of your health.

8. Eco-Friendly Practices: Our SMART clinic is committed to sustainability. We use eco-friendly materials, reduce waste, and implement green practices in our daily operations, aligning with the principles of Ayurveda and preserving the environment.

9. Research and Innovation: We are dedicated to advancing Ayurvedic knowledge and treatments. Our SMART clinic collaborates with research institutions to develop innovative Ayurvedic therapies and treatments that are both effective and safe.

10. Quality Assurance: Your health is our priority. We rigorously test and certify the quality of herbs and formulations used in our clinic. You can trust that our treatments adhere to the highest quality standards.

Welcome to the future of healthcare. Our SMART Ayurvedic Clinic is here to serve your health and wellness needs with the perfect blend of tradition and technology. We look forward to accompanying you on your journey towards better health and vitality.

🌿 Exploring Amla: Challenges and Opportunities in Pratapgarh, Uttar Pradesh 🌿

Greetings!

I hope this message finds you well. Today, I would like to shed light on a subject close to my heart – the challenges and opportunities surrounding Amla (Indian Gooseberry) in Pratapgarh District, Uttar Pradesh.

🌦️ Climate Change Impact: The ever-growing concern of climate change has not spared the Amla orchards in Pratapgarh. Erratic weather patterns, unpredictable rainfall, and temperature fluctuations are affecting crop yields and quality.

🌱 Early Fruiting & Pest Attacks: The phenomenon of early fruiting in Amla, possibly linked to climate change, poses a significant challenge. Alongside this, pests and insects threaten the health of Amla trees, demanding sustainable pest management solutions.

🛒 Marketing Woes: The Amla growers in Pratapgarh often face marketing difficulties. Ensuring a fair price for their produce and expanding their market reach remains a substantial challenge.

🌾 Chemical Inputs: The excessive use of chemical inputs in Amla production is a concern for both the environment and public health. Finding sustainable farming practices is imperative.

📚 Our Call to Action: We’re embarking on a mission to address these issues comprehensively. We are gathering data, conducting studies, and researching sustainable solutions for Amla cultivation in Pratapgarh. But we need your help!

📢 Join Our Efforts: If you have insights, studies, or experiences related to Amla in Pratapgarh or similar regions, we invite you to share them with us. Together, we can create a comprehensive report and an action plan for the future.

📩 Share with Us: Please send your contributions to doctorchandan@gmail.com. We are committed to making this a collaborative effort and sharing the final report with all contributors.

Amla has immense potential, and by addressing these challenges, we can unlock exciting opportunities for farmers, the environment, and the economy in Pratapgarh. Let’s work together to nurture this green gem!

#Amla #Agriculture #SustainableFarming #ClimateChange #Pratapgarh #UttarPradesh #Collaboration #Community

Innovations, Entrepreneurship and Startups in Medicinal Plants Sector: Emerging Global Opportunities

Its an Abstract of my Paper

The medicinal plants sector offers a widespread landscape of opportunities across various dimensions. This abstract explores these prospects, beginning with the medicinal plants’ value chain, which spans collection, cultivation, harvesting, processing, innovative value addition and marketing. However, challenges like inconsistent quality control and availability gaps hinder the sector’s growth. Innovations such as value addition techniques, unique formulations, sustainable sourcing, and quality control methodologies are being explored to bridge these gaps.

The sector intersects with the wellness industry, catering to the rising demand for natural food supplements and Nutraceuticals and popularity of Ayurvedic Kashayam and other formulation even the use of AYUSH Kwath and other indigenous methods of spices and medicinal herbs intake in preventive and promotive medicine. The rejuvenating Rasayana herbs of Ayurveda has established direct link with immunity modularization. These products leverage the therapeutic properties of medicinal plants to promote health and well-being. In line with this, the emergence of “Ayurvedic Ahara” as a new category under FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) regulations highlights the sector’s formal recognition and integration into the mainstream food industry. The notification of phyto medicines and 440 single herbs as food supplements has opened new opportunities in the sector.

The medicinal plants sector also contributes significantly to livelihoods and entrepreneurship. Local communities can derive sustainable income through cultivation and collection, fostering rural economies. This, in turn, leads to opportunities in value addition, processing, and marketing. The uniqueness of traditional, classical typical formulation of herbs, spices and food have tremendous potential in the global market if these products are technologically backed up to enhance safety, efficacy and shelf life for a longer period. The startup ecosystem is recognizing these possibilities, with entrepreneurs developing innovative products and technologies that capitalize on the diverse applications of medicinal plants. India is rich with scientific institutions ready with technological innovations having huge potential to go for mass production and addressing the need of the communities.

The medicinal plants sector presents a rich tapestry of opportunities ranging from creating opportunity in backward linkages in value chain enhancement to innovative product development, bridging nutritional gaps, and empowering local communities. Embracing these prospects requires collaborative efforts between stakeholders, government initiatives, and continued research to ensure the sector’s sustainable growth and positive socio-economic impact. The examples in terms of models needs to be created at local level.

In a post-COVID-19 scenario, the medicinal plants sector is witnessing a surge in interest, driven by the heightened global demand for herbal resources. This abstract delves into the emerging opportunities within this sector, focusing on innovations, entrepreneurship, and startups that are reshaping its landscape. One such example is an innovative initiative to make ready to eat Khichdi-a traditional recipe for well being of geriatric population.  

The intersection of the medicinal plants sector with the wellness industry is particularly promising. Natural food supplements and nutraceuticals, harnessing the therapeutic properties of these plants, are experiencing rising demand for their potential to enhance health and well-being. The recent introduction of “Ayurvedic Ahara” as a distinct category under FSSAI regulations showcases the sector’s formal recognition and integration into the mainstream food industry.

Beyond economic potential, the medicinal plants sector plays a crucial role in livelihoods and entrepreneurship. Local communities can establish sustainable incomes through cultivation and collection, thereby invigorating rural economies. This economic stimulus creates ancillary opportunities in value addition, processing, and marketing, fostering a holistic ecosystem.

The startup landscape is embracing the vast potential within this sector. Entrepreneurs are leveraging innovative technologies and product ideas that tap into the diverse applications of medicinal plants. This surge of entrepreneurial activity adds a dynamic dimension to the sector’s growth trajectory. However, to fully realize this potential, collaboration among stakeholders, proactive governmental support, and continued research are imperative. This united approach will steer the sector towards sustainable growth, driving positive socio-economic impacts globally.

Constrains in AYUSH Medicinal Plants Sector Raw material

India is very rich in Medicinal Plants Biodiversity, which provides raw materials for use in the pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and drug industries. The indigenous systems of medicines, developed in India for centuries, make use of many medicinal herbs. These systems include Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy and one another system included recently i.e. Sowa Rigpa.

In General it was assumed that cultivation of MAPs as compared to the traditional crops, have many advantages.

• Medicinal crops provide better returns than traditional crops
• Have very high domestic and export demand
• Fetch better prices in the market
• Could be stored for long time, and sold at a time when better prices prevail in the market
• They are largely drought tolerance, and not easily gazed by animals
• Have low incidence of pest attack and diseases
• Require minimum resources, therefore cost of cultivation is lower compare to traditional crops
• Could be raised as inter-crop along with traditional crops, also on degraded lands

Although India is a leading exporter of medicinal plants in the world, the rate of growth of these crops in relation to their economic prospects is not at all satisfactory. The major constraints experienced by the growers were put under three categories, viz. production, processing, and policy constraints. These constraints were barriers in cultivating MAP and restricted their area.

• The other major constraint is marketing of the cultivated raw material because of the quality considerations
• Lack of testing facilities at the procurement and trading centres together with unscrupulous market handling, results in wide fluctuations in prices, often going down to uneconomic and unrealistic levels
• Thus, speculative trade has been one of the most serious deterrents to the development of this enterprise
• Forest fire plays a very devastating role in the destruction of small medicinal plants
• Illegal trading of banned high value medicinal plants
• Excessive grazing by domestic as well as wild animals
• Cutting of medicinal trees for fuel, timber, etc., and lopping of leaves for fodder and cattle bedding
• Change in climate and weather pattern
• Lack of awareness towards this valuable heritage
• High initial cost in production
• Poor quality of inputs and delay in their supply
• Lack of awareness about loan feasibility and incentives
• No transparency in the trade
• Particularly on procurement source
• And high processing cost

It has been suggested that concerted efforts should be made to address these constraints and increase access to the world market.

Possible Solutions:

• Medicinal Plant  nurseries in each district of the State along with Herbal gardens.
• Collection centres connected to major mandis.
• TA schedule of the cultivated material is must.
• Organic certification is required
• Provision of manpower for research and development in Research institutions.  
• Farmers to get training in herbal cultivation and postharvesting techniques.  
• Certification for content at laboratories
• Cultivation should be backed with availability of planting material and support on the package of GAP, GFCP for cultivation and collection of MAPs.
• To avoid the risk of return MSP should be declared by the Government agencies

Constraints in cultivation of Medicinal Plants:

A. Quality planting Material (QPM) : This is burning issue and important factor for the development and growth of commercial cultivation programme of Medicinal Plants. QPM is the main key input for the success of commercial cultivations. In the reference of cultivation, different type of planting material method/ modes are used to grow the plants such as seed, stem cutting cuttings and root cuttings, which are commonly and widely used. Constraints in QPM availability in general is as under:

1. Availability of good quality planting material in bulk quantity is not available for mass scale cultivation.

2. Qualityof available germplasm / Planting material in term of production, efficacy and safety is not up to the mark and not fulfil the requirement of processing/ finished product.

3 Planting material imported from one area to another does not perform well.

4. Available planting materialare very expensive. Farmers are unable to afford. High cost also effect the cost – benefit ratio.

Remedy/ suggestions:

 1. Production of quality planting material in quantum.

2. Research on production of area specific planting materials, for which emphasis should be given to      R & D activity. For this purpose more and more scientific intuitions are to be hired/ involved.

3 . Planting Material developed from these institution needs there further mass scale production for the distribution to the farmers.

4. Efforts should be done to produce low cost high quality planting material which influences the cost- benefit ratio.

5. Efforts also should be done to develop Mother stock area for fulfilling the future demand.

6. Crop specific Seed Certification norms should develop and strictly followed.

7. Small duration varieties with high potency should be developed.

8 . Planting material should be developing in vicinity of cultivation area to protect transportation shock. This also helps to reduce time between uprooting and transplanting.

B. Commercial plants: Cultivation of Medicinal plant is new field and this is need of the hour. The following are the problems which are faced by the cultivator.

1. There is no authenticate and farmer friendly agro practices available.

2. Marketing facilities are not good and trade is unregulated. Demand of the raw material is uncertain.

3. No facility is available for testing the quality of harvest.

4. Transportation and storage facilities are poor.

5.  Crops are of long duration and production is low and unable to compete with traditional agriculture crops.

Remedy/ suggestions:

1. Development of Good Agriculture Practices (area specific. )

2. Development of quality planting material (Area specific high yielding varieties).

3. Research activity (area specific) should be enhanced to develop this sector.

4. Transportation and storage facilities should be created.

5. Certification procedure crop wise should be developed.

6. Marketing should be regulated.

7 . Crops should be undertaken under the cover of minimum support.

8. Study should be done to grow the plants in different cropping and land use systems.

9. Quality assessment facilitiesof should developed at the door step.

10 . Research should be done chemical free pest management schedule.

Major Recommendations of a Brainstorming seminar on “Challenges & Opportunities in Production, Processing and Utilization of Herbal Raw Material”

Production of herbal raw material

1. Lack of genetically defined Quality Planting Material (QPM), i.e. varieties/ cultivars, which should not be only based on marker compounds but overall potency/ efficacy of herb
2. Lack of Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) for commercial cultivation w.r.t. suitability of soil type and nutrition status, climatic conditions, etc.
3.  Lack of Good Field Collection Practices (GFCPs) for appropriate harvesting w.r.t. stage, season, tissue/organ
4. Lack of authenticity in herbal raw material collected from wild, thus strong emphasis in cultivation
5. Regional variation has been observed in heavy metal contaminants depending on soil type in a particular location
6. Mass-scale propagation of endangered species should be prioritized

Processing of herbal raw material

1. Lack of defined parameters or machinery for sorting, grading, drying, and storage of herbal raw material
2. Lack of proper washing, cleaning, drying, packaging and mode and conditions of transport of raw material results in microbial contaminants. Contamination of bacteria and fungus during storage and poor-quality packaging in transport results in aflatoxin production, which can cause serious liver damage
3. Lack of defined quality parameters, particularly for collectors as they are not educated, and their identity is not known in wild collections
4. No certification mechanism to ensure quality standards
5. Need to keep an eye on pests and disease problems while going for commercial cultivation of herbs as pesticide contaminations have been detected in raw material, which might be due unregulated spray of pesticides
6. Least importance has been given to post-harvest processing rather focus has been only on production and procurement of herbal raw material
7. Process parameters be defined specific to each herb and that too for a particular tissue/organ as well as stage of pre- and post-harvest processing to retain full efficacy and potency

Policy Issues

1. Poor engagement with state govt forest departments as their policies do not align with herbal growers and traders
2. Every state should identify and focus on defining complete “Supply Chains” for 4-5 medicinal herbs to ensure quality checks at each step, right from production to product development
3. Big challenge in engaging industry with farmers as several buy back MoUs haven been disowned by industry
4. Set up local “Herbal Products Foundries” based on ready access to herbal raw material to develop global products
5. How to regulate illegal extraction of high altitude herbal raw material as that not only lowers price competitiveness of cultivated raw material but also puts question marks of quality and authenticity
6. High altitude species have longer gestation period of 3-4 years, which discourages farmers to take up commercial cultivation as it takes longer waiting time for economic returns
7. Serious issues with Biodiversity Act and Forest Transitory policy, which need to be resolved through state governments
8. Regional Quality Testing Labs should be set up as there are hardly any in HP and UK to provide ready access to farmers/ traders to check quality parameters
9. Similar brain-storming discussions should be planned and focused on 1-2 species so as to bring out detailed species-specific problems and solutions
10. Medicinal & aromatic plant species should be classified as “Industrial Species” such as rubber plant species
11. Lack of trained human resource in almost all segments including rarity of taxonomists. Higher educational institutions should start courses in Herbal Raw Material and Herbal Medicine
12. The funding agency should fix defined “Outcomes” in funded projects and measured through measurable impact in the herbal supply chain
13. Industry raised concerns on authenticity and quality of herbal raw material supplied by farmers/collectors otherwise always looking forward to engaging farmers
14. Training programmes should be arranged to educate collectors/ traders on all components of production, processing, and transport
15. Several discussions have happened at various platforms on herbal raw material; however, nothing has been resolved yet. What are possible reasons ?

S&T Suggestions 

1. Adulteration and substitution with poor quality material is a big problem which can only be ascertained through developing specific and reproducible DNA barcodes
2. Lack of knowledge on what determines potency / efficacy of herb rather selection based only on marker compounds. Need to develop metabolic profiles to capture most of the metabolites  
3. How to make tissue culture/ hydroponic culture technologies cost competitive to field grown raw material
4. Selection of QPM should be based on active principle rather marker compounds or the content of botanicals
5. For Veterinary nutrition and health, the herbal raw material should also be assessed on same parameters
6. Herbs should be identified for sources of proteins as animal feed and tackling AMR problem, etc.
7. Need science-based interventions on improving the quality of herbal raw material, otherwise the sector will continue to suffer and may affect export
8. Nutraceutical sector is upcoming in India with annual turnover of US$ 6 billion whereas global is $ 400 billion and expected to reach $ 700 billion
9. Demand-supply gap should be regularly assessed and accordingly the farmers should be engaged
10. Nutraceutical herbs can add nutritional value in poultry and animal meat

Herbal Mandies Concept

Setting up of Herbs Collection Centres

Himachal Pradesh is known for its enriched biodiversity of many valuable medicinal and aromatic plants. Located in the laps of North-West Himalayas, State exhibits different Agro-climatic zones from sub-tropical to extreme temperate types making it a repository of a large number of medicinal plants and accordingly a variety of medicinal plants which are tropical to temperate in origin, occur in wild habitats. These are used variously as house hold commodities, folk lore remedies and of course in trade as a source of crude drugs for Pharmaceutical industry. The collection/harvesting of these crude drugs from wild is regulated by the Forest department as a part of NTFP. Under NTFP classification, it includes grasses, leaves, fodder plants, edible fungi, lichens, bamboos, small timber plants for making agricultural implements, fuel wood, medicinal plants etc. Medicinal Plants are the major sub-set of NTFP which not only play important role in the healthcare of the rural communities but also contribute significantly as a source of many household of those natives who have no other sustained source of cash income.

As stated above Himachal Pradesh is a treasure house of many medicinal plants, where the state harbours more than 3500 species of Angiosperms, out of which about 800 species are estimated in use as medicinal plants.  An analysis of the habits of the documented medicinal plants in the state shows that the majority of these are herbs (70%), followed by shrubs (15%), trees (10%) and climbers (5%).  These various forms yield crude drugs which are extracted from the forest every year to meet out the demand in Pharmaceutical industries. These crude drugs are collected from the forest under the strict regulation of the State Forest Department.

As per the reports of the Forest department of the State, more than 2,500 tons of medicinal plants and parts thereof harvested from the state every year and traded inside and out of the state. A parallel illicit trade in medicinal plants is also suspected. Beside the trade of medicinal plants harvested from the wild, some species are also cultivated for sale.  The legal annual trade in the medicinal plants in the state is more that about Rs. 10 Crores. The state Govt. receives an amount of about Rs. 40 lac. per annum through issuance of export permit for this trade.

The trade in medicinal plants from the state involves about 165 species, growing wild or cultivated in the state.  An important aspect of this trade is that about 24 species out of the top 100 medicinal plants species traded in the country are found in the state.  There seems a significant impact of medicinal plants on the local economy from a study carried out  in the buffer zone  of Great Himalayan National Park which reveals that harvesting and trade of Medicinal Plants gets every household an average annual income of Rs, 14,000/- year (Tandon,1996).

The negative side of this aspect is that the trade of crude drugs in the state is unorganised, in the absence of which the small growers/collectors of medicinal plant are forced to sell their produce to the middle man at throw away prices as compare to the prevailing market rates. Selling the produce outside the state to fetch high rates in the herbal market situated at distant places like Amritsar or Kharibabli, it is not affordable to the small collectors/growers on account of high transportation rates and legal implications involved during the transit of the produce.   To abolish the role of middle man in this trade and to provide the reasonable price to the local people, it is required that a net work of collection centres of crude drugs be created where the small collectors/growers may sell their produce at reasonable rates fixed by the appropriate authority in the shape of Market Support Price model (MSP) on the pattern of other Agriculture produce fixed by State/Central Govt. time to time.

To regulate the trade and marketing of the crude drugs in the state, a three layered marketing system is purposed to be established as per the NAAM guide lines. These are:

1.  Rural Herbs Collection Centres 

Most of the area in Himachal Pradesh is basically rural in nature. Remote hard and tribal areas are still not easy to assess. There are number of locations from where crude drugs are harvested/collected every year by the local people. After identifying hot spots in each of the 12 districts from where tradable crude drugs are extracted from the wild or otherwise grown by the collectors/farmers, small Rural Herbs Collection Centres are proposed to establish in the different potential locations in the respective district. A survey will be conducted at the grass root level where a cluster consisting of nearby locations/villages will be formed and will be linked with an Herbs Collection Centre where the farmers/collectors may sell their produce in what so ever quantity they have. For the safeguard of the interest of the rural people, a mechanism will be developed to fix the market support price of some selected tradable crude drugs so that the beneficiary may get reasonable price on their door step. This will not only boost the rural economy but also it will be a step towards the assurance of the quality material to make available to the industry also. These collection centres will also educate the local people to enhance their skill by organising the training programme by the Technical persons time to time under Skill Development programme of GOI. They will also be trained to adopt GAP/GFPCP as per the guide lines laid down by NMPB/NAAM. For creating the necessary infrastructure to established Rural Herbs Collection Centres the necessary funds will be made available under NAAM programme.

•  District Herbs Collection Centre

To channelize the rout of the raw material procured in the Rural Herbs Collection Centres from the different parts of the state, a linkage network shall be developed to pool all the crude drugs material at one place in each of the District.  For this purpose in each of the district one District level Herbs Collection Centres shall be developed for the temporary storage till its further transition either to the Regional Herbs Collection Centre or directly to the Industry. Before it, necessary steps shall be taken as required under Post Harvest management of GAP/GFCP like drying, sorting/grading, packaging etc. District Herbs Collection Centre shall be well equipped with all the facilities in this regard. These District Herbs Collection Centres shall be put in e-CHARAK portal along with the Regional Herbs Collection Centre for the benefit of the industry or others regarding the availability of the raw herbs in respective District Centres.

• Regional Herbs Collection Centre

A large number of Ayurvedic Pharmacies are functioning in the different parts of Himachal Pradesh in Public as well as in Private sector. Under the Ayurveda Department three pharmacies are working at Jogindernagar in District Mandi, Majra in District Sirmour and at Govt. Ayurvedic College, Paprola in District Kangra. Whereas more than 150 Pharmacies are functioning in private sector across the state, but Nalagarh-Baddi in Solan District is the main hub where more than 90% total of the private Ayurvedic drug manufacturing units are located. Baddi has emerged as a big destination in the field of drug manufacturing at the national as well as at international level. The premium houses like Daubar India, Charak, Baidyanath etc. have established their drug manufacturing units here.  These Pharmacies require many crude drugs in bulk quantity every year to meet out their demand for this purpose.  In the absence of any regulated herbal Mandi existing in the state, these units buy the material outside from the state. It is a miserable situation where the herbs collected/harvested from the state are purchased on very low prices by the local traders and then brought to the Big Mandi outside the state in the  Herbal Mandis like Khariwabli (Delhi) or Majith Mandi (Amritsar) and afterward from where sold to these units on very high prices. Transporting the material outside the state and then re-transporting to the state again, it not only affects adversely in the quality of the raw material but also in the economy of the state. Therefore, it is the urgent need that a big herbal Mandi be established in the state and especially at a place where there is a hub of manufacturing units. Considering all these facts as stated above, a big Herbal Mandi is proposed to be setup at Baddi, Solan. It will be only one Mandi of its type which is to be setup at level three after Rural Herbs Collection Centres & District Herbs Collection Centre under the name Regional Herbs Collection Centre at Baddi in Himachal Pradesh.

The regional Herbs Collection Centre will be linked with the various District Herbs Collection Centres so as to raw material drawn from the different Rural Herbs Collection Centres of each district may be clubbed and further brought to this Regional Collection Centre. Regional Herbs Collection centre shall be a focal point for marketing of the crude drugs collected or grown in the state of Himachal Pradesh where the traders or the industry can purchase the raw material of Himachal origin at one point. The Regional Herbs Collection Centre shall be provided with all the facilities for processing the crude drugs and also for value addition. In this Centre proper ware houses and cold storage facilities shall also be developed for the storage of the raw hers and value added products.  A mechanism will be developed where the industry directly may buy the crude drugs from these centres by linking these centres with e Charak portal of AYUSH Ministry, GOI.  It shall form a chain of the raw material derived from the different parts of the state as:

                Rural Herbs Collection Centres        District Herbs Collection

                Centres          Regional Herbs Collection Centre

In view of the above, RCFC-NR-1, NMPB, RIISM, Jogindernagar has decided to take an initiative in this direction by setting up of “Herbal Mandis” in three levels as mentioned above in the state for facilitating the small farmers/collectors to sell their produce on the reasonable prices so as to enhance their income and also to abolish the middle man in this trade. To start with on pilot scale, in the current financial year this centre is proposing to set up two “Herbal Mandis”, one at Bharmour/Saalooni in Chamba District and second at Jogindernagar in Mandi District of Himachal Pradesh. One of the Regional Herbs Collection Centre is also being proposed toset  at Baddi-Nalagargh in District Solan, the place which is a hum of Pharmaceutical Industries in the country. These “Herbal Mandis” will also act as an awareness–cum-training centre to the farmers/growers of the area on the different aspects of crude drugs like genuine identification of the species of MAPs, GFCP, drying, grading, storage and other related issues of post-harvest management of crude drugs. On the basis of the successful implementation of this programme, more “Herbal Mandis” can be established in the other parts of the state in future.

For setting up of these herbs collection centres the different requirements and the components are as under:

1. Land:  For creating the infrastructure necessary for the idle functioning of the collection centres, the foremost need is land requirement. The scale of the land requirement will be as per the category of the herbs collection centre to be established. This land will cater the need of the different in-house activities of the centre like unloading area of the freshly collected crude drugs, washing and drying area, grading and semi processing area, storage area, in-house  DTL, dispatch area, in-house man power living area etc.  For all these activities land has to be made available by the State Govt in the different locations where these centres are to be setup. For setting up of the rural collection centres 3-5 Acres of land will be required where as for setting up of District and Regional Herbs collection centres 10-15 Acres of land will be required.

These collection centres will function in Co-operative Society mode to be constitutive by the clusters or SHGs who are undertaking the cultivation or collection of the crude drugs from the specific area. Therefore the ownership of the land will be with the Societies registered under the Co-operative Society Act

2   Capital works:

The construction of buildings and other infrastructure shall be required to be executed to meet out the following components of the Herbs collection centres:

2.1 Unloading area of crude drugs: The various forms of crude drugs to be brought to the collection centres first of all are unloaded in the premises of collection centre for further processing. For this purpose a platform has to be built which should be clean and near to the herbs drying area. This unloading platform is mainly required in the rural collection centres. It should be have the supply of fresh water for first hand cleaning of the herbs for the soil and other such contamination. It must be assured that the water to be used for cleaning of the crude drugs must be clean and not contaminated with chemical and microbial load.  The washing area should have the sufficient water containers for the proper cleaning of the raw material. The unloading area must of reasonable dimensions for the proper keeping of the raw material. There should also be a provision of an earmarked area for the cutting and chopping hard woody and rooted crude drugs to convert these in to small pieces for the smooth and quick drying.

  2.2 Crude drugs drying area:

The crude drug derived from different sources either cultivation or collection from the wild, normally contain high moisture contents. Apart from the cases where freshly harvested herbs are required in the preparation of some formulations, most of the crude drugs must be properly dried to maintain their efficacy.  Freshly harvested crude drugs may contain 40 to 45 % moisture which should be reduced to about 5-7 % so as the phyto-chemical ingredients may remain biological active. The proper drying of the herbal raw material is not only necessary for stabilising the active principle but also for transportation from the harvested sites to destinations. It has been observed that the issue of proper drying of the raw material is not being adequately addressed.

The requirement of drying areas may be different for the Rural Herbs Collection centre and the bigger collect centres like district or regional herbs collection centres. Since the Rural collection centres shall be set up in rural and remote areas nearby hot spot of NTFP or cultivation locations, here some low cost and simple types of the drying systems be adopted Different drying techniques of crude drugs are in practice depending upon the nature of the crude drugs, concept of low cost energy consumption and location. To ensure the quality and efficacy of the herbal products, the proper scientific standardized drying techniques of the different forms of the raw material must be followed. The growers, farmers, collectors and other who are working in this field should be made aware to follow these techniques to ensure the high quality and efficacy of the end products obtained from the different crude drugs.

There are a number of dehydration methods of drying and packaging the herbs, vegetables and fruits are in practice as per the need of a particular commodity. At the Rural Herbs Collection centre the suitable techniques may as follow:

2.2.1 Sun Drying:

 Open air drying in shade or sun rays is one of the most conventional methods in practice adopted by the farmers in most part of the country. It is low cost drying method suitable for grains and pulses yielding Agricultural crops while in the case of drying of Herbal produce it helps to reduce the moisture contents considerably to cut short the energy cost for further drying as per the specific requirement.

2.2.2 Solar Drying:  

Solar drying can be differentiated from Sun Drying by the use of equipment to collect the Sun’s radiation in order to harness the radiative energy for drying of the material.  It is quite suitable drying method of the herbaceous material for the areas where outdoor day temperature reaches 30 Degree C or higher. Solar dryers are of different types designed as per the nature and the volume of the material to be dried. It is one of the cheapest conventional methods applied for the drying of the herbal produce. Operating the Solar Dryers require special skill. To dry the material of desirable grade it requires the judicious use of radiative energy otherwise it may spoil the material and deteriorate the quality and the efficacy of the produce

At the level of District and Regional collection centre the modern drying techniques may be adopted. The raw material to be brought to eratthese centres from the Rural Herbs collection centres is already considely in dry form but for to maintain the efficacy and to enhance the shelve life intervention of high quality drying technology may be adopted. It is therefore necessary that in these centres may be equipped with the following drying systems:

2.2.3 Tray drying:  

Tray drying is a batch process used to dry the material that is liquid or wet cake.  The input material is batched, placed into trays and loaded into overhead ovens for drying. It works well for material that requires more gentle processing or cannot be atomized in an air stream due to viscosity. Tray drying is used to dry products in drug manufacture ring. It is the most reliable means of drying.    

2.2.3 Osmotic Dehydration:

 This method can be used for 50% weight reduction in the material to ease the further drying or processing to enhance the shelf life of the produce. It is an energy saving and quality improving process with vey less loss of nutrients, colour, flavour and texture etc. of the produce. It is  also too economical and safe for human consumption as it does not require any preservative. The Osmo-air drying process has good potential for these herbs where the crude drug is in form of fruits. This process could be used on small scale for development of self-entrepreneurs and small scale industry

2.2.4 Spray Drying:  

 Spray drying is one of the oldest and most commonly used techniques for drying of liquid feedstock to particulate form.  Several designs of spray dryers are available mainly categorized based on the flow directions spray and drying gas.  Spray drying for encapsulation and microencapsulation of valuable neutraceutical ingredients is a one step and highly cost effective technique compared to other methods of encapsulations.  Although it is well established technique used in several industrial sector and pharmaceuticals, there are several limitations linked to it which include low energy efficiency, use of huge volume of drying air, use of high temperature and wall deposition etc.

2.2.5 Freeze Drying: I

t is one of the best methods of drying of Biological materials to get end product of highest quality. Freeze drying is sublimation of ice fraction where water passes from solid to gaseous form. Due to very low temperature, all the deterioration and microbiological activities are stopped and provide a better quality of the final products.  It is better preservation method over other dehydration methods

2.2.6 Spray Freeze Drying:  

It is a combination of spray drying and Freeze drying which gives extremely good quality dried particles of free flowing, ultrafine and uniform size with very high surface area and porosity. It provides nanoparticles with large surface area and hence can be used for several pharmaceutical applications. Although by this method the product quality is excellent, the energy consumption and investment cost is very high.  Hence this technique can be used for very special applications such as drugs, neutraceuticals, functional foods and some high valued products.

2.2.6 Vacuum Drying:

 It is a drying method that places the object to be dried in an enclosed container to vent air and reduce the pressure with a vacuum pump in order to artificially increase the water vapour partial pressure difference is called vacuum drying. The vacuum drying method dries an object with a temperature of 25 Degree C three times faster comparing to drying with warm air of 30 Degree C and humidity of 50%. It is use for the storage and transportation of fruits and other herbage material. 

2.2.7 Microwave Drying:

 It offers to shorten the drying time without degradation of final quality of the dried product. Material is heated directly due to agitation of the polar molecules contained in it. One of the advantages of Microwave-related drying is the adjustment of energy absorption level by the wet product automatically.  Microwave technology can be combined with conventional heating and drying units for faster controlled drying of the material

In this way there is a wide range of adoption of the proper and suitable type of drying technology available as per the need of the local conditions, type of crude drugs and category of collection-cum-processing centres. In the rural collection centres, the first level of primary drying technology of the produce is required to be introduced in form of sun-cum-shade and solar drying in the light of GFCP guidelines laid down by NMPB. It will not only reduce the moisture contents sufficiently to the range where the possibilities of microbial contamination are negligible but also reduce the volume considerably to cut down the transportation cost. This primary drying technology is easy to handle for the farmers/collectors after undergoing short term training.

2.3 Sorting-Grading area:  

At the level of Rural Herbs collection centre before to storage and despatch to the Industry or market it is necessary that the raw material must be sorted properly in to different grades to meet out their demand. Where it is necessary there should be a provision to separate the plants parts into different grades according to their size, quality, colour, texture etc. An area for this purpose has to be developed in the Herbs Collection Centre complex.

2.4 Storage:

After drying and grading of the raw material, there is a need to develop the storage facilities of the different morphological parts of crude drug. For each of the morphological form of the crude drugs like root, rhizome/underground parts, stem, leaf, flower, exudes, resins, whole plants etc., a separate provision for the storage is necessary to be built in. Till the despatch or the processing, the raw material is required to be stored in the sacks or containers made of the recommended standardized food grade material.

2.5 Micro-processing unit:

Normally most of the herbaceous herbal raw material is very much voluminous and requires large space for storage and transportation.   To enhance the storage capacity and to cut down the transportation price, it is more appropriate that this voluminous material may be semi processed into powder or likewise by installing a micro-processing unit in the collection centre. As the rural Herbal Collection Centres are being proposed to set up in rural far-flung areas where the road connectivity for transportation is very fragile and poor, it becomes more relevant to install such micro-processing units in all the Collection Centres. Therefore, a space may be earmarked for the installation of such units in complex of the collection centres.

2.6 Drug Testing Laboratory (DTL):

The purpose of setting the Herbs collection Centres is not only to provide a door step market to the farmers but also to provide a quality basic raw material to the herbal drug industry. It should not only be genuine morphologically identified but also possessing the required phytochemicals/active ingredients as per the pharmacopeal standards. For the determination of such standards, setting up of an in-house Drug Testing Laboratory as per the guide lines of AYUSH Ministry, GOI is most important. It will facilitate the farmers/collectors involved in the cultivation/collection of Medicinal Plants for the quality of their produce. Farmers may fetch better price from their low volume produce with high levels of the active ingredients than the high volume but with low contends level. A space for setting up of DTL as mentioned above may also be earmarked in the Herbs Collection Centres.

2.7 Meeting-cum-office Room

A meeting-cum-office room is essential to be constructed in the complex of Collection Centre where the local farmers may interact with the officials time to time regarding their problems and other related issues. At the Rural Herbs Collection Centre a small meeting room with the sitting capacity of about 20 persons is essential whereas at the District/Regional Centre a meeting hall with a sitting capacity of 50 persons will be required.

3 Financial Requirements:

For setting up of the Herbs Collection Centres there is a requirement of the funds to meet out various expenditure to be incurred in the construction of the building and other permanent structures as mentioned above.  In addition funds will also be required for creating the various facilities, to procure the necessary machinery & equipments, cost of the consumable, man power support, purchase/hiring of vehicle for official purpose, TA/DA of staff and other unseen expenditure. Two separate DPRs for this purpose, one each for Rural Herbs Collection Centre & Distt./Regional Herbs Collection Centre have to be worked out for the submission to the funding agency covering all the aspects covering physical and financial projections as stated above. After acquiring or purchasing the land in the specific locations for setting up of the category of Collection centre, the work of preparing DPR be assigned to an identified agency approved by the competent authorities.

4 Funding agency:

Ministry of AYUSH, GOI, is launching various capacity building programs for strengthening the healthcare for the well being of the society through Ayurveda and other Indian Systems of Medicines.  For the effective delivery of the systems it is highly important that the attention may be given to the grass root essential elements of the Ayurveda. In this respect one of the most important elements is the Medicinal plants sector which is directly involved in the manufacturing of Ayurvedic drugs and other herbal products, a base line of Ayurvedic health care services. Impact of these medicines depend on the efficacy of the formulations derived from the various herbs. Govt. of India has constituted National Medicinal Plants Board for the promotion of Medicinal Plants sector in the country followed by constitution of State Medicinal Plants Board in each state and setting up of RCFCs in the different regions for making the reach easily accessible to a common man in all the parts of the country. Similarity the Ministry is launching another programme under the name of National Ayurvedic Mission (NAM) for overall strengthening of the System.  In both the programms there is a provision for funding for setting up of the Herbs Collection centres and the amount of the funding  is as per the category of the centre which are three in number as:  1. Rural Herbs Collection Centre – Rs. 50,000,00,  2. District Herbs Collection Centre – Rs Five Crores and 3. Regional Herbs Collection Centre – Rs. 10 Crores.   Accordingly the DPRs may be worked out for the respective  category of Collection Centre for the further submission to the funding agency.

Summarized steps:

5.1 Selection of location for setting up of Herbs Collection Centre

5.2 Constitution of Society & its registration under Co-operative society act

5.3 Land acquisition/purchasing/transfer-as per category of centre

5.4 Hiring of agency for preparing the DPR

5.5 Approval of DPR-Site plan, drawing of the building, different components etc.

5.6 Submission of DPR to funding agency

5.7 Procurement & installation of equipment

5.8 Manpower deployment including technical staff for DTL

5.9 Establishment of DTL

5.10 Procurement/hiring of vehicle & other unseen material/equipment

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Dr. Arun Chandan: A Leading Ayurvedic Physician and Advocate for LokAyurveda

Introduction:

Dr. Arun Chandan is a prominent Ayurvedic physician who has made significant contributions to the field of Ayurveda, medicinal plants, and the development sector. With a diverse background, extensive experience, and qualifications, he possesses an encyclopedic knowledge of contemporary Ayurveda, medicinal plants, and their value chain. Coming from a family tradition of astrologers and Ayurvedic physicians, he has inherited deep knowledge of Ayurvedic medical astrology and the use of medicinal plants, which he integrates with Ayurvedic Prakriti and genome theory. He firmly believes in the potential of Ayurveda to address preventive and promotive aspects of healthcare, making him a valuable resource for all matters related to Ayurveda and the Indian medicinal plants sector.

Key Skills and Contributions:

Linking Traditional and Contemporary Knowledge: Dr. Arun Chandan combines classical and scientific diagnostic assessments to enhance the understanding and utilization of Ayurveda. He firmly believes that Ayurveda holds great potential in treating diseases by leveraging preventive and promotive aspects of knowledge. With his expertise, he strives to bridge the gap between traditional wisdom and modern scientific advancements.

Networking and Collaboration: Dr. Chandan has spent his entire life working closely with mountain communities in the Himachal Himalayan state. He has built relationships with innovators, healers, herb collectors, and native Himalayan communities. He advocates for the protection of traditional knowledge systems and the intellectual property rights of these communities. His vision includes establishing LokAyurved Vishav Vidyapeeth and a network of LokAyurved Grammen Shodhshaalas to promote the use of locally available resources for treating various ailments.

Research and Development: He actively undertakes research activities related to medicinal plants, cultivation techniques, and their applications in Ayurvedic treatments. He focuses on the development of agro-technology for endangered and high-demand species, with an emphasis on organic cultivation methods and field trials. His aim is to provide bankable projects and recommend cost-benefit analyses for cultivating medicinal plants, thus offering an end-to-end solution.

Training and Strategic Support: He possesses exceptional skills in imparting managerial and technical training to various stakeholders, including Ayush professionals, startups, entrepreneurs, budding scientists, growers, and collectors. He organizes trainings, workshops, and seminars to disseminate knowledge and provide strategic support. His focus is on promoting LokAyurveda and empowering individuals with the necessary skills and expertise.

Facilitation and Marketing: He is actively engaged in setting up primary processing, grading, and marketing facilities for Ayurvedic food supplements, Ayurvedic Ahar (diet), and AYUSH products. He collaborates with local stakeholders and organizations to streamline the supply chain and develop standardized equipment and machinery for post-harvest management and value addition at the source.

Conservation and Sustainability:He is actively works on conservation, sustainable cultivation, technology upgradation, utilization, and research on medicinal plants. He emphasizes the importance of good agricultural practices (GAP) and good field collection practices (GFCP) to ensure the responsible harvesting and cultivation of medicinal plants. Through his efforts, he aims to preserve biodiversity and promote sustainable practices in the field.

Database Development: He is working diligently on developing comprehensive databases that capture demand, quantity sold, and pricing information for major medicinal plant species. He is also involved in developing a block chain-enabled platform called Jadi Buti Bazar (JBB), which connects backward and forward linkages in the supply chain. These initiatives aim to resolve demand-supply issues and create transparency in the market.

Promotion and Communication: He utilizes various platforms, including YouTube channels and social media handles, to bring together stakeholders of medicinal plants and Ayurveda. He actively shares valuable information and engages with the community to promote awareness, understanding, and adoption of Ayurveda. His expertise in developing strategies for promotion, innovative business creation, and product development through Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) is commendable.

Dr. Arun Chandan, with his extensive knowledge and diverse background, is a leading Ayurvedic physician and advocate for LokAyurveda. His deep understanding of Ayurvedic medical astrology, medicinal plants, and their value chain make him a valuable resource for all matters related to Ayurveda and the Indian medicinal plants sector. Through research, training, strategic support, and collaborative efforts, he is actively contributing to the development, conservation, and sustainable growth of Ayurveda. His vision for establishing LokAyurved Vishav Vidyapeeth and LokAyurved Grammen Shodhshaalas highlights his commitment to preserving traditional knowledge and utilizing locally available resources for healthcare. Dr. Arun Chandan’s contributions are paving the way for a healthier and more sustainable future through Ayurveda.

Ghee in Ayurveda-a new dimension

Dr Arun Chandan: Embracing Ayurvedic Ghritam: Restoring Balance and Empowering Wellness

Introduction:
Imagine a world where holistic well-being is at the forefront of healthcare. A world where individuals are empowered to take charge of their health through natural, time-tested remedies. Ayurveda, the ancient science of life, holds the key to such a transformative vision. In this proposal, we present a plan for manufacturing and marketing Ayurvedic Ghritam, a profound therapeutic concoction that encompasses centuries of wisdom and healing. Through our efforts, we seek to ignite a renaissance of holistic wellness, bringing balance and vitality to individuals’ lives.

The Power of Ayurvedic Ghritam:
Ayurvedic Ghritam, often referred to as Ayurvedic clarified butter, is a potent formulation derived from the combination of ghee (clarified butter) and herbal extracts. This unique blend not only enhances the efficacy of the herbs but also facilitates their absorption and assimilation by the body. By harnessing the wisdom of Ayurveda and utilizing high-quality ingredients, Ayurvedic Ghritam has the potential to address a myriad of health concerns, including digestive disorders, respiratory ailments, mental wellness, and rejuvenation.

Manufacturing Excellence:
At the core of our proposal lies the commitment to manufacturing excellence. We envision a state-of-the-art facility that adheres to stringent quality control measures, employing traditional methods alongside modern technology. This integration ensures that each batch of Ayurvedic Ghritam is meticulously prepared, maintaining the purity, potency, and authenticity that Ayurveda demands. By partnering with renowned Ayurvedic experts and adopting sustainable practices, we pledge to produce Ghritam that resonates with both tradition and innovation.

Empowering Wellness:
Our mission extends beyond manufacturing; it encompasses the nurturing and empowerment of individuals on their wellness journey. Through comprehensive educational initiatives, we aim to raise awareness about Ayurveda and the benefits of Ayurvedic Ghritam. Workshops, seminars, and online resources will be designed to foster a deep connection with the ancient wisdom, enabling individuals to make informed choices regarding their health. We seek to cultivate a community of individuals who embrace Ayurveda as a way of life, promoting self-care and preventive healthcare.

Marketing Strategies:
To ensure the reach and availability of Ayurvedic Ghritam, we propose a multi-faceted marketing approach. This approach includes targeted digital marketing campaigns, collaborating with wellness influencers, and forging partnerships with healthcare professionals. By leveraging the power of social media, we will engage with potential consumers, sharing inspiring stories of personal transformations and highlighting the science behind Ayurvedic Ghritam. Furthermore, strategic collaborations with Ayurvedic clinics, wellness centers, and retail outlets will facilitate accessibility and foster trust among consumers.

Regulatory Compliance and Safety:
We recognize the importance of adhering to regulatory guidelines and prioritizing consumer safety. Our manufacturing processes will comply with stringent quality standards set by governing bodies, ensuring that Ayurvedic Ghritam meets all safety and efficacy parameters. Rigorous quality testing, certification, and regular audits will be undertaken to guarantee product integrity and build consumer confidence.

Conclusion:
In a world where stress, pollution, and lifestyle imbalances have become commonplace, Ayurvedic Ghritam stands as a beacon of hope—a timeless elixir that brings harmony and vitality to our lives. By embracing Ayurveda and offering the highest quality Ghritam, we aim to revolutionize healthcare, empowering individuals to take charge of their well-being. Let us join hands in this transformative journey, where ancient wisdom meets modern aspirations, and where the pursuit of holistic wellness becomes a universal reality. Together, we can unlock the profound healing potential of Ayurvedic Ghritam and restore balance in the lives of millions.

Web Portal: Collaboration Invited

Dr Arun Chandan: Creating a Comprehensive Web Portal on Ayurveda, Medicinal Plants, and their Supply Chain: A Single Stop Solution for Ayurveda Wellness

Introduction:
Ayurveda, an ancient system of medicine, is gaining significant recognition globally for its holistic approach to wellness. The use of medicinal plants lies at the core of Ayurveda, as they offer a natural and sustainable solution for preventive and curative healthcare. To promote and disseminate knowledge about Ayurveda, medicinal plants, and their supply chain, the development of a comprehensive web portal is proposed. This web portal will serve as a single stop solution for all things related to Ayurveda, including preventive medicines, classical medicines, innovative practices, and information on medicinal plants and their supply chain.

Objectives of the Web Portal:

Information Repository: The web portal will serve as a centralized repository of information on Ayurveda, encompassing a wide range of topics such as wellness practices, preventive medicines, classical Ayurvedic medicines, and innovations in the field.

Medicinal Plant Database: A comprehensive database of medicinal plants will be created, offering detailed information on their properties, uses, cultivation, and availability. This database will provide a valuable resource for practitioners, researchers, and enthusiasts in the field.

Supply Chain Management: The web portal will facilitate the smooth functioning of the supply chain by connecting stakeholders involved in the cultivation, processing, and distribution of medicinal plants. It will serve as a platform for nurseries, seed suppliers, and raw material providers to showcase their products and connect with potential buyers.

Promoting Ayurvedic Wellness: The web portal will provide insights and resources on Ayurvedic wellness practices, including lifestyle recommendations, dietary guidelines, yoga, meditation, and other holistic approaches to well-being. This will empower individuals to incorporate Ayurvedic principles into their daily lives for improved health and vitality.

Information on Preventive Medicines: The web portal will highlight the preventive aspects of Ayurveda, showcasing herbal formulations, dietary supplements, and lifestyle interventions that can enhance immunity, prevent diseases, and promote overall wellness.

Classical Ayurvedic Medicines: The portal will feature a section dedicated to classical Ayurvedic medicines, including information on formulations, their traditional preparation methods, and indications for use. This will cater to those seeking authentic Ayurvedic remedies for specific health conditions.

Innovations in Ayurveda: The web portal will foster innovation in the field of Ayurveda by featuring the latest research, developments, and technological advancements. This will encourage collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the implementation of innovative practices in the Ayurvedic community.

Key Features of the Web Portal:

User-friendly Interface: The web portal will have an intuitive and user-friendly interface, making it accessible to a wide range of users, including healthcare professionals, researchers, entrepreneurs, and the general public.

Search Functionality: A robust search function will enable users to find specific information about medicinal plants, wellness practices, preventive medicines, and classical Ayurvedic formulations, facilitating quick and targeted access to desired information.

Interactive Discussion Forums: The web portal will host interactive discussion forums where users can engage in discussions, seek advice, and share experiences related to Ayurveda, medicinal plants, and wellness practices. This will foster a sense of community and knowledge sharing among users.

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