Course overview

The cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) requires a unique set of skills and knowledge to ensure successful growth, harvest, and utilization. This skill development course offers participants an in-depth exploration of the principles and practices involved in cultivating a diverse range of MAPs. Through hands-on learning experiences, participants will develop essential skills and techniques essential for sustainable and profitable MAP cultivation.

Objectives:

Acquire comprehensive knowledge of medicinal and aromatic plants, including their botanical characteristics, therapeutic properties, and cultivation requirements. Develop proficiency in site selection, soil management, and environmental considerations for optimal MAP growth, Master propagation techniques, including seed sowing, vegetative propagation, and nursery management., Learn advanced cultivation practices for MAPs, including irrigation, fertilization, pest and disease management, and weed control, Gain expertise in harvesting, post-harvest handling, and processing techniques to maintain product quality and efficacy, Explore value-added product development opportunities using MAPs, such as essential oils, herbal extracts, and teas, Develop business acumen and marketing skills to promote MAP products effectively and sustainably.

Module 1: Introduction to Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (MAPs)

• Overview of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants
• Economic Significance and Market Trends
• Climate and Soil Requirements for Different MAPs
• Identification of Popular Medicinal and Aromatic Plant Species

Module 2: Cultivation Techniques for MAPs

• Soil Preparation and Nutrient Management
• Propagation Methods for Medicinal and Aromatic Plants
• Crop Planning and Rotation
• Intercropping Strategies for MAPs

Module 3: Integrated Pest and Disease Management for MAPs

• Identification of Common Pests and Diseases
• Biological and Chemical Control Measures
• Monitoring and Surveillance Techniques
• Sustainable Pest Management Practices

Module 4: Sustainable Farming Practices for MAPs

• Organic Farming Techniques
• Water Conservation and Irrigation Strategies
• Agroforestry and Multi-tier Cropping
• Post-Harvest Handling and Storage Practices

Module 5: Extraction and Processing of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants

• Techniques for Essential Oil Extraction
• Quality Standards for Medicinal Plant Products
• Value Addition and Processing Opportunities
• Regulatory Compliance in MAP Processing

Module 6: Business and Marketing Strategies for MAP Growers

• Business Planning for MAP Cultivation
• Market Analysis for Medicinal and Aromatic Plants
• Value Addition and Product Differentiation
• Digital Marketing and Online Presence for MAP Growers

Module 7: Research and Innovations in MAP Cultivation

• Emerging Trends in Medicinal Plant Research
• Innovations in Aromatic Plant Breeding
• Role of Biotechnology in MAP Cultivation

Module 8: Project Work and Industry Visits

• Hands-on Projects in Medicinal and Aromatic Plant Cultivation
• Industry Visits to Processing Units and Research Facilities
• Project Presentation and Evaluation

Assessment:

• Continuous Evaluation through Assignments and Quizzes
• Practical Examinations for MAP Cultivation Techniques
• Business Plan Development and Presentation

Certification:

Upon successful completion of the program and meeting assessment criteria, participants will be awarded a certification from the Agriculture Skill Council of India.