How Many R&D Projects on Medicinal Plants Are Supported by the Ayush Ministry?
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Synopsis
The Ayush Ministry's National Medicinal Plants Board is making significant strides by supporting 431 research projects focused on medicinal plants. This initiative not only promotes research but aims to address the crucial aspects of quality, sustainability, and marketability of herbal products, contributing to the overall growth of the herbal industry in India.
Key Takeaways
- 431 R&D projects supported by the Ayush Ministry.
- Focus on conservation, sustainability, and quality of medicinal plants.
- Commercial demand for herbal raw drugs reached 511,910 MT in 2014-15.
- Significant losses reported due to inadequate post-harvest facilities.
- Government initiatives aim to enhance agro-techniques and marketability.
New Delhi, July 22 (NationPress) The National Medicinal Plants Board under the Ministry of Ayush has endorsed 431 research projects within the 'Research & Development' segment focusing on various facets of medicinal plants, as reported to the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday.
Expanding on the Ministry’s Central Sector Scheme aimed at Conservation, Development, and Sustainable Management of medicinal plants, Minister of State for Ayush Prataprao Jhadav stated, “The NMPB has also backed nine initiatives under the ‘Forward and backward linkage in supply chain of medicinal plants (Integrated Component)’ across the nation.”
In a written response to inquiries from Mukul Wasnik, the MoS noted, “The total commercial demand for herbal raw drugs in the nation during the year 2014-15, adjusted to dry weight for all sectors, was calculated at 511,910 MT, including a wastage of 14,910 MT.”
He detailed that the demand from the domestic herbal industry was 195,000 MT, export demand reached 134,500 MT, and rural households required 167,500 MT.
He further explained that the government has evaluated losses resulting from inadequate post-harvest facilities for storing medicinal plant products.
According to a study supported by the NMPB, “Medicinal Plants in India: An Assessment of their Demand and Supply” by Ved and Goraya, published in 2017, post-harvest handling wastage of raw drugs was included in the annual demand estimates for herbal raw drugs.
Providing insights into government strategies to foster research and development (R&D) concerning medicinal plants, including the development of agro-techniques, post-harvest management, and storage, he mentioned that the NMPB has sponsored 431 research projects under the “Research & Development” umbrella involving both Government and Non-government organizations, research institutions, and universities.
The R&D initiatives encompass areas such as quality testing and certification, infrastructure development for Quality Planting Material necessary for cultivating medicinal plants, and Information Education Communication (IEC) activities aimed at enhancing farmer awareness.
The MoS added that some R&D projects specifically target infrastructure improvements for post-harvest management and marketing to enhance the marketability of medicinal plants, thereby adding value to the produce, boosting profitability, and minimizing losses.
Point of View
The support of 431 R&D projects by the Ayush Ministry highlights a robust commitment to enhancing the medicinal plant sector. This proactive approach not only fosters innovation but also ensures sustainable practices that can significantly benefit both the economy and health sectors in India.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the R&D projects supported by the Ayush Ministry?
The R&D projects aim to enhance the understanding, conservation, and sustainable management of medicinal plants, improving quality, marketability, and profitability for stakeholders in the herbal industry.
How many projects has the National Medicinal Plants Board supported?
The National Medicinal Plants Board has supported a total of 431 research projects focusing on various aspects of medicinal plants.
What were the findings of the NMPB-supported study published in 2017?
The study titled 'Medicinal Plants in India: An Assessment of their Demand and Supply' estimated that wastage during post-harvest handling was a significant factor in determining the annual demand for herbal raw drugs.
What was the total commercial demand for herbal raw drugs in 2014-15?
The total commercial demand for herbal raw drugs in India for the year 2014-15 was reported to be 511,910 MT, which included a wastage of 14,910 MT.
What challenges does the herbal industry face according to the MoS?
The MoS highlighted the challenges posed by the lack of post-harvest facilities, which leads to significant losses in the medicinal plant produce.
