A two-day training program on “Cultivation, Post-Harvest Management and Sustainable Utilization of Medicinal Plants” was jointly organized by ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bengaluru, National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB), New Delhi, and ICAR-Taralabalu KVK, Davanagere during 29–30 September 2025.

The program was inaugurated by Dr. Raghavendra Prasad, Deputy Director of Horticulture, who emphasized the expanding national and international market for medicinal plants and encouraged farmers to adopt integrated medicinal plant-based farming systems. Mr. Thippeswamy, Deputy Director of Agriculture, urged diversification from conventional crops to high-value medicinal plants, while Dr. J. B. Raj, President, Rotary Club, highlighted community participation and marketing support. Dr. Ravindra, Professor of Dravya Guna, Sushrutha Ayurvedic Medical College, discussed Ayurvedic treatments for various ailments.

In a technical Session on cultivation practices, post-harvest management and Value addition, Dr. G. R. Smitha, Principal Scientist, ICAR-IIHR, elaborated on scientific cultivation techniques of commercially important medicinal plants which can be cultivated in and around Davanagere region. She detailed about the medicinal plants suitable for intercultivation in arecanut, propagation, nutrient management, pest control, harvesting, post-harvest aspects and value addition methods like drying, oil extraction, and herbal product preparation, emphasizing income generation and entrepreneurship. Dr. Basavanagowda M. G, Scientist (Horticulture), KVK highlighted the government schemes for promotion of medicinal plants. He also explained schemes under National AYUSH Mission and NMPB, including grants for nurseries, post-harvest units, and buy-back arrangements, motivating farmers to avail support. Dr. Prashanth G. S, Professor, Kayachikitsa, Sushrutha Institute of Ayurvedic Medical College, explained about the Home Remedies for Lifestyle Diseases. He also highlighted the remedies for diabetes, hypertension, and stress using plants like Amla, Ginger, and Fenugreek, emphasizing holistic health.

About 150 participants, including farmers, Ayurveda students and local residents attended the program. Lemongrass saplings were distributed as a token of encouragement. The event was sponsored by NMPB, New Delhi and coordinated by Dr. G. R. Smitha (ICAR-IIHR) and Dr. Basavanagowda M. G (KVK, Davanagere).