Madhya Pradesh Governor Mangubhai Patel and Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav inaugurated the 7-day International Herbal Fair (Van Mela) at Lal Parade Ground in Bhopal on Tuesday.
The 10th International Herbal Fair is being organized by the Forest and State Minor Forest Produce (Trade and Development) Cooperative Union from 17 to 23 December.
Speaking on the occasion, Governor Mangubhai Patel said that Madhya Pradesh is a state rich in terms of forest wealth. There is a rich store of medicinal herbs here. Governor Patel along with CM Dr. Yadav distributed incentive amount to the beneficiaries under Minor Forest Produce Association.
The main theme of this year’s herbal fair is “Women empowerment through minor forest produce“. Participation of women in the fair will be especially appreciated, as their role in minor forest produce collection is about 50 percent. This event will provide a golden opportunity to women to boost their productivity and business capabilities.
A special exhibition will be organized by various government departments during the Van Mela. Additionally, over fifty Ayurvedic Physicians (Vaidyas) will offer free medical treatment to attendees. It is anticipated that approximately 25,000 people will benefit from these free treatment services during the fair.
Delegates from Sri Lanka, Nepal and Australia will participate in the two-day international workshop to be held on 19 and 20 December. The aim of this workshop is to promote international dialogue on minor forest produce, medicinal plants and women empowerment. This dialogue will bring out new business and scientific perspectives, which will help in getting global recognition to this sector.
300 stalls will be set up in the 10th Van Mela, in which various forest producers, Ayurvedic medicine manufacturers, farmers and government departments of the state will exhibit their products and services. This event is not only important from a business point of view, but it also provides a platform where people can learn more about the use of forest resources and understand the possibilities associated with it.
Van Mela is not just a business platform, but also a cultural festival. During this time, various cultural programs will be organized, which include folk dance, street plays, orchestra and singing programs. Programs of personalities like famous folk singer Malini Awasthi, comedian Ehsan Qureshi and Sufi band will make the fair even more exciting.
