Patchouli plantation project launched
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, April 29 2011: Aimed at promoting growth of medicinal plant among the farmers in the State a 'Patchouli Plantation Programme' has been organised today at the MACS Conference Hall R&D Wing, Lamphel with Health Minister L Jayantakumar as the chief guest.

The programme was jointly organised by State Medicinal Plants Board and Medical Directorate, Lamphel under the stated objective of boosting growth of Patchouli plant, whose fragrant oil extract is used in the manufacture of perfume.

Speaking at the occasion, Minister Jayanta expressed elation that farmers of the State have started to venture into previously unexplored areas and called upon the peasant community to strive for self sustenance in agro economy.

While highlighting that Manipur is a naturally blessed land with its soil highly suitable for plantation of various crops, he strongly suggested that experts in the field of agriculture or horticulture be consulted before and after plantation of any crop as well as attend training programmes being held from time to time.

Describing the Patchouli plantation programme as a huge project, the Minister also called upon all concerned to facilitate sale and export of the Patchouli produce.

Addressing the gathering, NEDFI (R&D Centre/Tripura) Project Director Arindam Choudhuri encouraged the State farmers to promote growth of Patchouli plant with the assurance that there would be no shortage of purchasers of the medical plant as its demand by perfume makers is very high.

Health Services Manipur Director S Ibomcha, who also spoke at the occasion informed that Patchouli plant is also known as 'Khamella' in the local parlance with its usage not only in the manufacture of perfume or aromatic products but its remains convertible into bio-fertilizers and germicides.

He also pledged that the Health Department would ensure its export.

AMAPCON president P Devakanta, Project Co-ordinator of MSFAC Manipur MS Khaidem and NEIST Lamphel scientist-in-charge Dr H Birkumar also spoke at length on ways to plant Patchouli and its economic viability.

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