Enhancing Livelihoods and Conservation: A Decade-Long Analysis of Medicinal Plant Cultivation in the Indian Himalayas

The Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) harbors a rich diversity of high-altitude medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) representing both an important biodiversity reservoir and a significant opportunity for enhancing rural livelihoods. Using on-field surveys, stakeholder workshops and extension activities from 2017 to 2024, we engaged 3,177 farmers across seven remote districts i.e. Chamoli(n=1812), Uttarkashi(n=212), Rudraprayag (n=483), Tehri Garhwal(n=196), Pauri Garhwal(n=180), Pithoragarh(n=86) and Bageshwar(n=208), we distributed 1,351,613 seedlings of six priority species- Picrorhiza kurrooa (637,396), Nardostachys jatamansi (239,782), Aconitum heterophyllum (160,585), Swertia chirayita (159,200), Valeriana jatamansi (116,100) and Dolomiaea costus (38,550). Cultivation areas expanded notably, especially for P. kurrooa (from 2 acres in 2015 to ∼120 acres in 2024), followed by D. costus (∼60 acres) and A. heterophyllum (16 acres). On average, farmers cultivating MAPs on 1-2 acres generated annual gross incomes of INR 150,000-300,000, (USD 1735-3469) representing a 11.6–191.5 % increase in household earnings (FIG index) and a MAP-Driven Income Ratio (MDIR) of 22.4–72.7 %. Future projections using a regression model indicate a continued upward trend in cultivation by 2034, P. kurrooa and D. costus are expected to surpass 262.51 and 182.67 acres respectively, primarily in Chamoli and neighboring districts. While direct ecological indicators were not measured, the cultivation of MAPs under certified and genetically authenticated planting material theoretically reduces pressure on wild populations by meeting market demand through farm-based production. This substitution strategy supports ex situ conservation and aligns livelihood generation with biodiversity conservation objectives in the IHR, contributing to global biodiversity targets and Sustainable Development Goal 15 (Life on Land). • An alternative cropping model was assessed alongside key challenges in policy, market access and Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (MAPs) supply chains in the Indian Himalayan Region. • Mountain communities were trained for “conservation through cultivation” of six IUCN-listed Rare, Endangered and Threatened (RET) high-altitude MAPs. • A total of 1.35 million seedlings were distributed, expanding Picrorhiza kurrooa cultivation from 2 acres (2015) to 45 acres (2024) across seven districts. • Cost–benefit analysis revealed Valeriana jatamansi and P. kurrooa as most profitable crops, generating net returns exceeding ₹370,000 (∼$4,345) per acre. • MAP cultivation significantly enhanced farmer incomes, showing 11.6–191.5% income growth and up to 72.7% household income dependency on MAPs.