The main objectives of the sector were to

• Utilize the vast natural resources for herbal & natural products
• Develop and commercialize select technologies, products & processes
• Develop & establish/ demonstrate new approach towards health care system.

Two studies were undertaken to examine the present level of performance of herbal products/ floriculture industry and assess international market potential. The SWOT analysis of the herbal industry suggested short term and long-term action plan. The reports also brought out a list of 45 medicinal plants for short and long term action plan.

As a follow-up of these studies, demonstrations were carried out for the farmers of Uttarakhand on processing and value-addition technologies and exploitation of value-added geranium oil products.

A true standardization of Bacopa extract has been achieved through  a novel, non-butanolic process which has ultimately led to the launch of the product  internationally under the brand name of BacoMind by the implementing agency. Similarly, Omega-3 powder of different grades and of international standard has also been launched.

TIFAC also demonstrated mobile hospitals - an innovative low cost health care model in public-private partnership for the under-privileged in remote hilly regions of Kumaon and Garhwal of Uttarakhand.   The mobile hospitals offer modern diagnostic facilities and curative health care, conduct health & hygiene awareness programme and collect health profile data. These models have been replicated not only within Uttarakhand but also in North-Eastern states under National Rural Health Mission. The concept was included in the 11th Five Year Plan for public private partnership (PPP) in the Health Sector.

A true standardization of Bacopa extract has been achieved through  a novel, non-butanolic process which has ultimately led to the launch of the product  internationally under the brand name of BacoMind by the implementing agency. Similarly, Omega-3 powder of different grades and of international standard has also been launched.