According to WHO (2003), nearly 80% of the global population relies on traditional medicine for their healthcare needs. India, recognized as one of the world’s twelve mega-biodiversity hotspots, uses almost one-fifth of its plant species for medicinal purposes.

Traditional herbal remedies are also witnessing renewed interest in many developed countries as people look for natural alternatives to modern medicine.

The demand for high-quality medicinal plants is steadily rising for human health, livestock care, and farm profitability. However, due to deforestation, industrialization, and urbanization, both the quality and availability of medicinal plants are declining. Only a limited number of species are cultivated, and despite the hard work of farmers, their earnings remain low compared to industry margins. This highlights the need to educate and support farmers in medicinal plant cultivation.

Agrilive Research Foundation (ARF) has been actively contributing to the conservation and cultivation of medicinal plants through structured programs. Over the years, ARF has successfully cultivated more than 12 medicinal herbs across 500 acres in seven states, including Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Uttarakhand. Key herbs grown include Ashwagandha, Kalmegh, Tulsi, Makoi, Bhumiamla, Bach, Pipali, and Kaunch. More than 350 MT of quality herbs have been supplied to manufacturing units, earning strong appreciation from stakeholders.

ARF also completed the first year of nursery technique development for Vidarikand, a project undertaken in collaboration with the National Medicinal Plants Board.

In 2015–16, over 300 farmers across different agro-climatic zones benefited from ARF initiatives, achieving nearly 20% higher income compared to their existing cropping patterns.