Excelsior Correspondent
LADAKH, June 9: The CSIR-IIIM Jammu today organised a daylong awareness program on “cultivation, processing, and marketing of medicinal plants” as part of the ongoing One Week One Lab (OWOL) celebrations in Ladakh.
A press statement said that the program was inaugurated by Dr Zabeer Ahmed, Director CSIR-IIIM Jammu, and Er Abdul Rahim, Chief Scientist and Head IIIM Srinagar.
Over 100 farmers, entrepreneurs, and students from Ladakh attended the program. The participants were provided with detailed presentations on the introduction of selected medicinal and aromatic plants in Ladakh.
Dr Zabeer Ahmed emphasized the importance of sustainable development in Ladakh through precision agriculture and the development of region-specific protocols for cultivating aromatic and medicinal plants.
He expressed gratitude to the Ladakh Administration for their support in establishing the new Experimental Farm/Extension Farm in Ladakh, which follows the latest agronomical protocols suitable for the region’s agro-climatic conditions. He highlighted the need for both in situ and ex-situ cultivation and conservation strategies for the socio-economic development of the region.
Er Abdul Rahim highlighted the diverse range of medicinal and aromatic plants found in the high-altitude cold desert region of Ladakh. He discussed the potential of the herbal products industry for the economic development of the region, including opportunities in cosmetics, perfumes, pharmaceuticals, and wellness centers.
Dr Qazi Pervaiz, Senior Principal Scientist, provided insights into agronomic protocols, cultivation, processing, value addition, post-harvest management, and marketing strategies specifically tailored for high altitude areas like Ladakh.
Adv Tashi Gyalson, Chief Executive Councillor, expressed appreciation for CSIR-IIIM’s efforts in establishing the experimental farm in the region. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between local farmers and IIIM for the sustainable development of Ladakh.
The program included a lecture by Dr Sonam Dawa, Horticulture Development Officer Ladakh, on the scope and importance of medicinal and aromatic plants in the Ladakh region.
The event began with a welcome address by Dr Padma Lay, Scientist, and concluded with a vote of thanks by Zubair Ahmad, (TA).
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