A training program on “Cultivation, Post-Harvest Management and Sustainable Utilization of Medicinal Plants” was organized on 26^th November, 2025 by the ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bengaluru in association with the ICAR - Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Hiriyur, Chitradurga District of Karnataka under the NMPB project “Capacity building programme on Conservation, cultivation and post-harvest management of Medicinal Plants”

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 suitable for Chitradurga Dictrict. She also highlighted the 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. Shivakumar, M.D. Ayurveda explained about the importance of medicinal plants in our daily life and briefed about home Remedies for lifestyle diseases and importance and sustainable utilization of medicinal plants.

About 150 participants, including farmers, women self-help groups, students and local residents attended the program. Arka vegetable seed kit and Arka neem soap were distributed to the participants as a token of encouragement. The event was sponsored by National Medicinal Plants Board, New Delhi and coordinated by Dr. G. R. Smitha, Principal Scientist, ICAR-IIHR and Dr. Saraswathi, Scientist, ICAR - Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Babbur farm, Hiriyur, Chitradurga.