By SANTOSH MOHANTY
Farmers at Pampasar in Satkosia Wildlife Sanctuary, Saradhapur and Kumurisinga in Angul and Pipalbahal in Chhendipada blocks in Angul district of Odisha have embarked on a mission to produce eco-friendly products like lemongrass, mint and Tulsi oil to encourage the usage of these products to combat health hazards due to environmental pollution in the region.
They are growing lemongrass and Tulsi under the guidance of Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plant(CIMAP) to produce natural aroma. These products are of great demand in local market. Cultivation of these crops enhance the livelihood resources of farmers of Angul district. The Aroma Mission, based in Lucknow, is a Government of India project.
Reports said of the 30 districts of Odisha, 22 are covered under Aroma Mission. CIMAP is providing seeds and saplings to farmers free of cost. The oil extraction units are provided free of cost to the farmers.
The oil extraction units are installed at Pampasar in Satkosia area and Pipalbahal in Chhendipada. The other plant is being set up at Kumurisinga, situated close to the district headquarters town of Angul.
Tulsi oil is used for curing severe cough and cold and malaria. Cultivation of mint(Mentha) is underway at Saradhapur, according to Ashok Satpathy who is doing the marketing of aroma products like lemongrass oil, mint oil and Tulsi oil. He said Tulsi seed is also being used for reducing sugar level of patients affected with diabetes and other related ailments.
