By OUR STAFF REPORTER
Dehradun, 28 Jun: The Chemistry and Bioprospecting Division, Forest Research Institute (FRI), organised a training programme, titled “Empowering Communities Through Herbal Innovations”, today, at Ummedpur, here.
The programme was attended by 28 members of Ganpati Mahila Swayam Sahayta Samooh from Gangotri Kaushal Vikas Evam Utthan Samiti, Ambiwala, Dehradun, and 2 representatives from Godavari Gramodhyog, Nadigaon, Bageshwar, and Garhkesari Goods LLP, Rishikesh.
The event began with opening remarks by Dr VK Varshney, Head of the Chemistry and Bioprospecting Division, FRI, who briefed about the training programme and emphasised the importance and benefits of herbal solutions. Recognising the significant role of herbal innovations in improving rural livelihoods, FRI aims to share valuable knowledge and technical expertise with beneficiary groups and others interested in the production and marketing of herbal products.
The programme included practical demonstrations and training sessions on various herbal innovations resulting from the Division’s research. Dr VK Varshney, along with Dr K Murali, Scientist-B and programme convener, and team members Ashwini Kumar, Technical Officer; Gaurav Kumar, Technician; and research scholars Piyush Bhalla, Kiran Chauhan, and Anjali Bhatt, showcased the production of herbal dhoopbattis and herbal soaps using Prinsepia utilis seed oil. They also demonstrated the extraction of natural dye from wild pomegranate peels, and its application on textiles. Other applications of the dye in food, cosmetics and gulal were also discussed.
Furthermore, participants learned about essential oil extraction from Cupressus torulosa and vegetable oil extraction from Prinsepia utilis, focusing on the methods and applications. This training programme was financially supported by the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) under the CAMPA Extension (Component-6) programme.
This initiative represents a significant step towards empowering local communities by promoting herbal innovations, enhancing their skills, and providing new opportunities for sustainable livelihoods. Participants expressed their gratitude and enthusiasm, showing a strong willingness to apply their newfound knowledge to improve their economic conditions and contribute to environmental conservation. The programme ended with the distribution of certificates to the participants.
