The 33rd Annual Group Meeting of the All India Coordinated Research Project on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants & Betelvine (AICRP-MAP&B) was a significant event held from January 20-22, 2026, in Arunachal Pradesh. This gathering brought together experts and researchers to discuss the latest advancements in the field of medicinal and aromatic plants, with a special focus on the North Eastern Hill (NEH) region. The event was a collaborative effort between the College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University (CAU), Pasighat, and various esteemed institutions and individuals.
The opening ceremony was attended by notable figures, including Shri Ninong Ering, MLA from the 37-Pasighat West Constituency, Arunachal Pradesh, who delivered the keynote address. Dr. Sudhakar Pandey, Assistant Director General (FVSMAP) of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), was the guest of honor, emphasizing the importance of medicinal and aromatic plants in strengthening the economy and ensuring livelihood security. Dr. Manish Das, Director of ICAR-Directorate of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research, Anand, and Project Coordinator of AICRP-MAP&B, presented the research achievements of the previous year and outlined the project's technical program.
The event highlighted the significant role of medicinal and aromatic plants in the NEH region, with Dr. L. M. Garnayak, Director (Research) of Central Agricultural University, Imphal, emphasizing the university's research achievements in promoting MAPs. Dr. Wangchu, Dean of the College of Horticulture and Forestry, and Dr. Sanjay Swami, Dean of the College of Agriculture, both from CAU (I) Pasighat, also contributed to the discussions.
One of the key takeaways from the meeting was the need for robust value chains to promote medicinal and aromatic plants in the North Eastern Region, as pointed out by Shri Ninong Ering. The three-day workshop featured technical sessions covering Crop Improvement, Crop Production, Crop Protection, Phytochemistry, and Plenary sessions, where research achievements were reviewed and the technical program for the upcoming year was finalized.
The event attracted over 120 participants from across the country, including Deans and Heads of various departments of CAU (I), press and media representatives, and other esteemed guests. During the workshop, five technical bulletins and the Annual Report of AICRP-MAP&B were released, providing valuable insights and updates to the attendees.
This annual gathering serves as a platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange, contributing to the advancement of medicinal and aromatic plants research and their potential impact on the economy and livelihoods in the region.
