NewzVille Desk
The National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB), Ministry of Ayush, organised a one-day Chintan Shivir on Medicinal Plants at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, yesterday. Miniser of Ayush, Prataprao Jadhav, inaugurated the Chintan Shivir as the Chief Guest.
In his address, he remarked that medicinal plants are not merely the foundation of India’s traditional knowledge systems but also a vital component of its biological and economic heritage. He said that the growing global recognition of Ayurveda and other Ayush systems highlights India’s potential to become a global supplier of quality medicinal plants and plant-based wellness products.
He further appreciated the dedicated efforts of NMPB in strengthening backward and forward linkages, expanding market access, and ensuring quality and authenticity in the supply chain. The Minister urged all stakeholders to continue their collective work toward developing a globally competitive, environmentally sustainable, and economically vibrant medicinal plants sector that serves both the nation’s farmers and the health needs of society.
Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, in his remarks, underlined that NMPB’s silver jubilee is not just a milestone of achievement but also an opportunity for introspection and innovation.
He stated that the next phase of the journey must focus on scientific validation, traceability, and climate resilience to ensure that India’s diverse medicinal flora is conserved and optimally utilised in alignment with international standards.
Hoveyda Abbas, Additional Secretary and Financial Adviser, Ministry of Ayush, emphasised sound fiscal discipline and timely release of funds to ensure the effective execution of NMPB projects.
He encouraged greater participation by states and Union Territories to adopt innovative models of financial management and sustainability while expanding outreach to local communities engaged in medicinal plant cultivation. He assured the Ministry’s continued institutional and financial support to NMPB’s initiatives.
Dr. Mahesh Kumar Dadhich, CEO, NMPB expressed gratitude the Minister for his guidance and the Ministry for its continued support. He informed that the Chintan Shivir was conceptualised to review the achievements of the past 25 years and to plan for the future growth of the sector.
Highlighting NMPB’s work in conservation, capacity building, and research promotion, he stated that the Board remains committed to strengthening the entire value chain—from cultivation to market—through innovation, stakeholder participation, and sustainable practices.
During the inaugural session of the Chintan Shivir, several key releases and collaborations were announced to mark the 25th anniversary of the National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB). The English version of the commemorative booklet highlighting NMPB’s 25-year journey and the Terrace Garden Booklet were released to showcase achievements and best practices in medicinal plant cultivation.
The event convened senior officials, subject experts, industry leaders, and state representatives to deliberate on policy, research, and implementation strategies aimed at strengthening the medicinal plants sector through sustainable practices and innovation.
