Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry in Himachal Pradesh will operate the National Medicinal Plants Board's new regional centre for Northern India.
Shimla, India Jul 28, 2026 ALN: Solan: In a major achievement for Himachal Pradesh, Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry (UHF), Nauni, has been selected by the National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB), Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India, to establish and operate the Regional-cum-Facilitation Centre for Northern Region-I (RCFC-NR-I) following a nationwide competitive selection process.
The selection of UHF Nauni as the operator of the RCFC-NR-I represents a significant step in promoting the cultivation and research of medicinal plants in the northern region of India. This initiative aligns with the Indian government's broader strategy to enhance the use of traditional medicine and promote the sustainable use of natural resources.
The university secured the prestigious assignment after presenting a proposal led by Dr Devina Vaidya, Director of Research. The proposal team included Dr Rohit Sharma, Assistant Professor, Department of Forest Products, as Coordinator, and Dr Pankaj Kumar, Assistant Professor, Department of Biotechnology, as Co-Coordinator. This collaborative effort showcases the university's commitment to leveraging its academic resources and expertise in a field that has gained increasing recognition and importance in recent years.
The proposal was presented before the NMPB Expert Committee in New Delhi, highlighting the university’s research infrastructure, technical expertise, and extensive work in medicinal and aromatic plants. The NMPB, established in 2000, aims to promote the cultivation and conservation of medicinal plants in India, which is home to a rich diversity of flora known for its medicinal properties. With this selection, UHF Nauni is poised to play a crucial role in achieving these objectives in the northern states.
The Regional-cum-Facilitation Centre, which was previously housed at the Research Institute of Indian System of Medicine (RIISM), Joginder Nagar, has now been entrusted to UHF Nauni. This transition is significant as it allows the university to utilize its existing facilities and expertise to enhance the effectiveness of the centre's operations. The centre will coordinate National Medicinal Plants Board programmes across Delhi, Chandigarh, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh, thereby extending its reach and impact across a diverse geographical area.
According to the university, the centre will function as a regional hub for the conservation, cultivation, processing, value addition, research, and marketing of medicinal plants. This multifaceted role is essential, as it addresses various aspects of the medicinal plants sector, from initial cultivation to the final product. It will also facilitate technology dissemination, capacity building, promotion of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and Good Field Collection Practices (GFCP), besides supporting project development, documentation, and policy initiatives to strengthen the medicinal plants sector across northern India.
The importance of medicinal plants in India cannot be overstated. The country has a long history of using herbal remedies and traditional medicine, with a wealth of knowledge passed down through generations. The revival and promotion of this knowledge through initiatives like the RCFC-NR-I are critical for enhancing healthcare options and ensuring the sustainable use of biodiversity.
Vice-Chancellor Prof H.S. Baweja described the selection as a matter of pride for the university, saying it reflects the institution’s commitment to advancing research, innovation, and farmer-centric development in the medicinal plants sector. This commitment is vital as it not only enhances the university's reputation but also contributes to the socio-economic development of the region.
He said the Regional-cum-Facilitation Centre would strengthen collaboration among researchers, farmers, entrepreneurs, industries, and government agencies while promoting sustainable cultivation, conservation, and value addition of medicinal plants throughout northern India. This collaborative approach is essential for creating a robust ecosystem that supports the growth of the medicinal plants sector, ensuring that all stakeholders benefit from the opportunities presented by this growing field.
In addition to the immediate benefits of establishing the RCFC-NR-I, there are broader implications for the agricultural and healthcare sectors in India. By fostering the cultivation and research of medicinal plants, the centre can contribute to the development of new herbal products, which can enhance the range of treatment options available to patients, particularly in rural areas where access to modern healthcare may be limited.
Furthermore, the establishment of the centre is expected to create new job opportunities in the region, particularly in agricultural practices related to medicinal plants. This aligns with the Indian government's initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods for farmers and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. As the demand for herbal medicines continues to grow globally, enhancing local production capabilities can position India as a leader in the herbal products market.
As UHF Nauni embarks on this new venture, it will be crucial for the university to establish strong partnerships with local communities, research institutions, and industry players. These partnerships will be instrumental in achieving the centre's objectives and ensuring that the benefits of the initiative reach the wider population. By focusing on education and awareness, the centre can empower local farmers with the knowledge and tools needed to cultivate and market medicinal plants effectively.
Looking ahead, the success of the RCFC-NR-I will depend not only on the university's ability to implement its plans effectively but also on the support and collaboration it receives from various stakeholders. The commitment to sustainable practices and the integration of traditional knowledge with modern scientific approaches will be key factors in enhancing the medicinal plants sector in northern India.
In conclusion, the establishment of the Regional-cum-Facilitation Centre for Northern Region-I at UHF Nauni marks a significant milestone for the university and the broader medicinal plants sector in India. As the centre begins its operations, it holds the potential to drive innovation, promote sustainable practices, and foster economic development in the region, ultimately contributing to the well-being of communities and the preservation of India's rich biodiversity.
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