The future of India's economy and traditional medicine is blooming in the North East! The 33rd Annual Group Meeting of the AICRP on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants & Betelvine (AICRP-MAP&B) brought together experts and policymakers to discuss this very topic.
But first, let's set the scene...
On January 20-22, 2026, Arunachal Pradesh hosted a pivotal event for the region's agricultural and medicinal plant research. The College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University (CAU), in Pasighat, welcomed esteemed guests and researchers for this annual gathering.
The event was inaugurated by Shri Ninong Ering, MLA of the 37-Pasighat West Constituency, who shared his insights on the importance of medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) in the region. Dr. Sudhakar Pandey, Assistant Director General of ICAR, joined as the Guest of Honour, emphasizing the role of MAPs in India's future.
And here's where it gets intriguing...
The meeting highlighted the progress made by AICRP-MAP&B, with Dr. Manish Das detailing their research achievements and implementation strategies. But the real controversy lies in the potential impact of these plants on India's economy and traditional AYUSH systems.
Dr. L. M. Garnayak, Director (Research) at CAU, shed light on the NEH region's unique advantages for MAP cultivation and its potential to boost rural economies. This sparked discussions on the need for value chain development, a crucial aspect often overlooked.
The technical side of things...
Technical sessions covered crop improvement, production, protection, and phytochemistry, leading to the finalization of the project's technical program for the upcoming year. Five technical bulletins and the annual report were also released, providing valuable insights into the latest research.
With over 120 participants, including Deans and Heads of various CAU departments, the workshop fostered collaboration and knowledge exchange. The presence of press and media representatives ensured that the event's key messages reached a wider audience.
So, what's your take?
Are medicinal and aromatic plants the key to unlocking India's economic growth and traditional medicine's revival? Or is there more to consider? Share your thoughts on this controversial yet exciting topic!
