Domestication and cultivation of MAPs in India.

Farmers in different states in India have a tradition of practicing mixed farming systems that include different herbal plants; therefore, the cultivation of MAPs— especially applying organic and certified farming concepts—has considerable scope in different regions of India. 

The advantages of cultivating MAPs include the ease of their incorporation into existing cropping systems as a result of their availability in large numbers of various species and the ability to choose plant types based on their suitability to be grown under different eco-physical conditions. However, this requires an improved input and service delivery system including marketing and post-harvest technologies. 

Cultivation needs to be done on a business platform by a chain of small and micro-enterprise-based groups and individuals. In order to achieve economies of scale and the desired impact, it may be necessary to intensify production of specific crops within selected production areas and as clusters of micro-enterprises. 

Source: Adapted from Singh, K. M. & Swanson, B.E. 2006. Development of supply chains for MAPs: A case study involving the production of Vinca Rosa by small farmers in the Patna District of Bihar, India (Available at )