𝐌𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐁𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐌𝐞𝐞t - 18 and 19th December 2025

The Medicinal Plants Business Meet 2025 officially commenced with an insightful online inaugural address by Shri P. Prasad, Hon’ble Minister for Agriculture, Government of Kerala. A special video message by Prof. (Dr.) Mahesh Kumar Dadhich, CEO, National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB), Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India, extended his best wishes for the Meet. The inaugural session began with the Welcome Address by Dr. P. Sujanapal, Principal Scientist, PI & Nodal Coordinator, NMPB-RCFC (SR), KSCSTE–KFRI, and was presided over by Dr. Kannan C.S. Warrier, Director, KSCSTE–KFRI, who delivered the Presidential Address. The Chief Guest & Keynote Address was delivered by Dr. P. Pugazhendi, IFS, APPCF (Finance, Budget & Audit) and Head of Social Forestry Wing & CCF (IT), Government of Kerala, followed by Special Addresses from Dr. N. Anil Kumar, Chairman, Kerala State Biodiversity Board. The session also included the felicitation of distinguished personalities, including Dr. S. Chand Basha, IFS, Former PCCF & Former Director, KSCSTE-KFRI, and Mr. Raju K. Francis, IFS, Managing Director, KFDC, Government of Kerala. Key launches and releases, including financial support schemes, publications, documentaries, and crop-specific brochures, marked the importance of knowledge sharing in this sector. The inaugural session concluded with the Vote of Thanks by Dr. U.M. Chandrashekara, Project Manager, NMPB-RCFC (SR), KSCSTE–KFRI. The Medicinal Plants Business Meet 2025 continues to serve as a dynamic platform for farmers, traders, entrepreneurs, and industry stakeholders to connect, learn, and collaborate for a sustainable and profitable future in medicinal plant cultivation. Meet Highlights: * Direct buyer–seller interactions * Clear industry insights on quality standards, procurement needs, and market demand * Thoughtful discussions on sustainable cultivation and post-harvest practices * A field visit that bridged farmers and industry through on-ground realities * MoU Signing * Exhibition of value added herbal products