Thiruvananthapuram: The South Indian state of Kerala is all set to
implement a novel project under which the government will encourage and provide
support to farmers and plantation owners to grow herbal medicines and later buy
back produce by ensuring fair price to them.

The initiative is conceived to find a solution to the acute
scarcity of medicinal plants in the state. Kerala, which possesses a rich
tradition of Ayurveda, is investing big on the ancient healthcare system, that
includes setting up of an International Ayurvedic Research Centre at Kannur and
establishment of a Medicinal plant Preservation & Processing unit at
Kollam.

The decision was taken in a high-level meet, attended by Health
Minister K K Shailaja Teacher and Agricultural Minister V K Sunil Kumar, held
at state capital Thiruvananthapuram on Friday.

“The project is to enable maximum area of cultivation of
medicinal plants and to address scarcity. The support to growers will be
extended using funds available with Ayush and Agricultural departments. Produce
from the initiative will be bought by Ayurvedic medicinal manufacturers in
public and private sector through a buy back arrangement ensuring fair price to
farmers,” a statement said.

The meet observed that Ayurvedic medicinal manufacturers are
facing serious shortage of herbal plants which in-turn affects the sector. Short
term, interim and long-term plantation of herbal plants will be encouraged. A
committee comprising members from various departments was set up for the
project implementation. 

Ayush department Secretary Dr Sharmila Mary Joseph,
Agricultural Secretary Dr Ratan Khelkar, National Ayush Mission Director Dr
Navjyot Khosa, Agricultural Director Dr K Vasuki and Forest Chief Conservator
Padma Mohanti participated in the parleys.