PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Bageshwar
The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CIMAP) have developed a high-yield and highly aromatic peppermint strain called CIM-Indushree. The researchers who have developed this new peppermint variety claimed that it yields at least 20 per cent more oil, matching the quality standards of the American-type peppermints. As per their estimate, the farmers who will invest Rs 50,000 in this crop can earn up to Rs 83,000 net profit in just three months. “Apart from CIMAP Purura (Lucknow), the new Indushree variety has been successfully tested in various parts of the country and the scientists state that this new strain is highly productive even in the cool and mountainous regions of Uttarakhand,” said a researcher. Peppermint plants are widely used for preparing essential oils, perfumes and herbal products. Besides, the oil is used in preparing chewing gums.
The senior scientist, Rajesh Chaudhary and technical officer, Praval Pratap Singh said that with almost 50 per cent higher productivity and superior oil quality, the new peppermint variety promises significant economic benefits for farmers.
Echoing this view, CIMAP experts say that the peppermint herbal tea made from CIM-Indushree would not just have a refreshing flavour but also open up new avenues for local farmers and producers. They further noted that this new aromatic variety would find a favourable climate in the middle and upper Himalayas in Uttarakhand.
“Peppermint herbal tea prepared from CIM-Indushree will play a significant role in boosting the income of local producers with the opening of fresh market opportunities,” said Singh. Chaudhary shared the same view, stating that with the new variety loaded with immense benefits for the growers, they were suggesting a large-scale cultivation.
