The State Medicinal Plant Board (SMPB), Union Territory of Ladakh, in collaboration with the Regional-cum-Facilitation Centre, Northern Region–II, organized a One-Day Stakeholders’ Meet-cum-Workshop on Medicinal Plants at the Defence Institute of High Altitude Research (DIHAR), Leh, on November 7. The theme of the event was *“Opportunities in Cultivation of Medicinal Plants in Ladakh.”

The programme commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Tashi Thinlas, Director of Health Services/AYUSH and CEO, SMPB, UT Ladakh, who outlined the Board’s initiatives to promote and sustainably manage medicinal plants in the region. He encouraged farmers to adopt medicinal plant cultivation as a viable and eco-friendly source of livelihood.

Over 100 participants—including experts, departmental officers, traditional practitioners, farmers, BSRMS students from the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies (CIBS), and representatives from various institutions—attended the workshop.

Dr. O.P. Chaurasia, Director, DIHAR, Leh, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and delivered an inspiring address, commending the SMPB for its proactive efforts in promoting medicinal plant cultivation—a sector with immense potential in Ladakh. He emphasized that Ladakh’s unique high-altitude ecology provides ideal conditions for cultivating several high-value medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) that are in growing demand both nationally and globally.

Dr. T.H. Masoodi, Nodal Coordinator, Regional-cum-Facilitation Centre (Northern Region–II), delivered a comprehensive presentation on the commercial prospects and livelihood opportunities associated with medicinal plant cultivation in Ladakh.

In the first technical session, Dr. Tserin Palmo, Director, Nun Association, Leh, highlighted medicinal plant cultivation as a means to promote economic empowerment, preserve traditional knowledge, and support environmental sustainability. Dr. Kunzes Angmo, Scientist-cum-Assistant Professor, University of Ladakh, presented practical cultivation techniques suited to Ladakh’s agro-climatic conditions.

The second session featured expert talks by Dr. Tsewang Rinchen (National Institute of Sowa Rigpa), Zabir Ahmad (CSIR–IIIM, Palam), and Nawang Rinchen (Amchi and progressive farmer), who shared insights on scientific cultivation methods, the role of Sowa Rigpa in healthcare, and emerging market opportunities for medicinal plants.

The workshop concluded with an open discussion and a felicitation ceremony honoring the dignitaries and speakers. Dr. Phunchok Angmo, Consultant, SMPB–UT Ladakh, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all participants and acknowledging Dr. O.P. Chaurasia, Director, DIHAR, for providing the venue and extending full support to the event.

The State Medicinal Plant Board, UT Ladakh, reaffirmed its commitment to promoting sustainable growth, conservation, and value-chain development of medicinal plants across the region.