KUMARI, Jan 17: The Namsai Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) organized a training programme on ‘cultivation and processing of aromatic plants’ for the farmers of Kumari Adivasi village on Thursday, under Jorhat (Assam)-based CSIR-NEIST’s ‘Aroma Mission’.
During the programme, KVK Head Dr Manish Kanwat emphasized the need for “a synergistic approach, such as medicinal plant cultivation and its product marketing,” for doubling the farmers’ income by 2022.
CSIR-NEIST scientist Dr Mohanlal explained how to use natural resources, such as by cultivating medicinal and aromatic plants, for generating self-employment avenues for the rural youths. He also spoke on the improved and high oil content varieties of lemongrass and citronella which fetch good returns on investment.
A team of scientists answered the queries raised by the farmers with respect to processing and marketing of essential oil.
KVK scientist Dr Santosh Kumar highlighted the benefits of lemongrass and citronella “in terms of rupees per hectare, cost of cultivation and protection from stray animals.”
As many as 110 farmers participated in the programme.
