As part of the CSIR SMART Village Mission, CSIR-CIMAP, Lucknow successfully organized an Awareness-cum-Hands-on Training Programme on production of herbal products and sustainable cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants at Village Kusunpur, District Kendrapara, Odisha, on 28 July 2026.

The programme witnessed the enthusiastic participation of around 60 beneficiaries, including more than 50 women members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and progressive farmers.

During the inaugural session, CSIR-CIMAP, highlighted the immense potential of Tulsi and Vetiver cultivation for enhancing rural livelihoods and doubling farmers’ income through scientific cultivation practices.

The technical team of CSIR-CIMAP conducted hands-on demonstrations on the preparation of herbal incense sticks and eco-friendly dhoop cones, generating keen interest among the participants for establishing village-level micro-enterprises.

As part of the programme, Soil Health Card Reports, prepared from previously collected soil samples, were also distributed to the farmers along with scientific recommendations for nutrient management.

The programme received an overwhelming response, and the excellent coordination between CSIR-CIMAP and CSIR-CBRI ensured effective communication and smooth conduct of all activities despite language differences.