Among the many unexplored and untapped capabilities of the Northeast in general and its geographically largest state Arunachal Pradesh in particular, the one which is invariably discussed relates to medicinal herbs. From the history of medicinal plants of Arunachal, particularly how nature alone has played a catalytic role in their natural growth that has been documented in renowned scientific journals across the world, even for a non-technical person it’s easy to comprehend that the potential is huge. While the prospect creates a voluntary excitement, the fact that only a fraction of the potential has been explored will induce anyone to ask why it has been so? The reasons presumably must be many, however, industry, science academia and governments must not differ that time has arrived for more concerted efforts.
Medicinal plants and herbs and all those belonging to the aromatic family since time immemorial have been accepted as great elixirs for human health and for many decades after advent of the modern pharmaceutical industry, they have got a new title- ‘plants of prosperity’ due to the sheer commercial returns they entail. Good number of medicinal species of plants found here have a huge demand in global pharma industry. Arunachal has been blessed by nature with all the factors necessary for their growth in terms of climate, altitude, soil and others. For the state’s youths many of whom are seriously entrepreneurship-minded, this sector can ensure long-term dividends. Both Central and state governments, respective Boards, banks and all stakeholders must play the role of patrons, at least during the preliminary timeline.
For actual realisation of the potential and goals of the medicinal plants sector in Arunachal as reminded in meets and seminars, proper and prolonged hand-holding of all currently engaged and those waiting to be involved is urgently needed. Buyer-Seller Meet must be encouraged to give a platform to discuss problems and find solutions.