The Pharmexcil and Shellac are organising a one-day conference of Ayurveda and Medicinal Plants in Dehradun on July 7, 2006.

Anbumani Ramadoss, Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare and Jairam Ramesh, minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Govt of India, have expressed keen interest in the promotion of exports of medicinal plants and its value added products. Both have consented to participate in the meet.

The main topics that will be discussed in the conference include the present status of exports; issues concerning enhancement of production and collection; need for development of market/trade for medicinal plants; strategies for employment, production and exports promotion; special support/assistance to primary growers/collectors and trade / industry; and forest and environment policies.

Stakeholders concerning the growth, manufacture, export of medicinal plants, herbal medicines, ayurvedics, neutraceuticals, herbal extracts, dietary supplements etc., are expected to take part in the meeting.