Srinagar, Jul 6 (GNS): Government on Tuesday ordered that Directorate of Indian Systems of Medicine, J&K, shall be the implementing agency for various activities of medicinal plants cultivation in Jammu and Kashmir.
As per an order issued here, Director, Indian Systems of Medicine, J&K shall be the Chief Executive Officer of J&K Medicinal Plants Board.
The implementing agency, the order said, shall implement the activities approved under medicinal plants component of National AYUSH Mission; liaison with the Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India, for proper implementation of the scheme in J&K and prepare perspective and annual action plan with the technical support from a ‘Technical Support Group’ at the UT level with the members from Agriculture Universities, Facilitation Centers, ICAR, ICFRE, CSIR Institutions and other experts in the field to oversee its implementation.
Besides it has been tasked to receive funds from the Government for carrying out activities, maintain proper accounts thereof and submit Utilization Certificates to the concerned agencies.
The implementing agency shall also release funds to the implementing organizations like SHGs, Cooperatives of growers, grower associations and producer companies responsible for different clusters and oversee, monitor and review the implementation of the programmes, the order, a copy of which lies with GNS reads further.
It has been also tasked to organize baseline survey and feasibility studies in different parts (district, sub districts or a group of districts) to determine the status of medicinal plants, its potential and demand and tailor assistance accordingly. “Similar studies would also be undertaken for other components of the programmes,” the order said.
The agency shall also assist and oversee the implementation of the component in different clusters selected with reference to their agro-climatic suitability for growing medicinal plants through farmers, societies, NGOs, growers, associations, Self Help Groups, State institutions and other similar entities, the order reads.
Lastly, it has been asked to organize workshops, seminars and training programmes for all interested groups/associations in J&K. (GNS)
