Kannur Ayurveda Centre to Launch Medicinal Plant Nursery

Quick Summary

• The Kerala government has approved the establishment of a medicinal plant nursery at the International Ayurveda Research Center in Kannur, which is currently under construction.
• 12 acres of the 200-acre campus will be dedicated to this project, aimed at conserving adn promoting medicinal plants.
• ₹62.6 lakh has been allocated for its first-year implementation out of ₹1.5 crore earmarked for research activities in FY 2025-26.
• Key components include:

– Bio vermicompost unit
– Medicinal plant germplasm collection unit
– Nursery infrastructure: pump house, storage sheds, propagation house, greenhouse, shade house, hardening house, and integrated rain harvesting system.

• Target production: 10 lakh seedlings over five years (2 lakh annually).
• Beneficiaries: Farmers and public across Kannur,Kozhikode,Wayanad & Kasaragod districts.
• Anticipated benefits:

– Increased income opportunities for farmers through diversification into medicinal plant cultivation.
– Creation of direct and indirect jobs locally.
– Sustainable ecosystem development for Ayurveda-based industries.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The establishment of a medicinal plant nursery at the International Ayurveda Research Centre signals Kerala’s commitment to advancing Ayurveda while integrating customary knowledge with modern methodologies. By focusing on agricultural diversification into medicinal plants alongside job creation potential in local communities across multiple districts (Kannur being the core), this initiative may strengthen regional economies while fostering sustainability.

The integration of techniques such as bio vermicomposting and germplasm collection reflects a hybrid approach combining environmental conservation with scientific development. Additionally, producing high-quality seedlings positions India strategically in herbal agriculture’s growing international market-a sector integral to global wellness trends.

This program appears carefully structured with clear targets like annual seedling production goals and employment generation plans aligning well with Kerala’s broader vision for promoting Ayurveda as both an industry and cultural heritage practice.

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