Herbal Gardens of various kind are promoted under the Central Sector Scheme for Conservation, Development and Sustainable Management of Medicinal Plants to create awareness about traditional usage of medicinal plants. This includes Herbal Gardens of National and State importance as well as at the level of Institutions, Schools, Universities, Colleges and Homes. Setting up of herbal gardens in schools is a good way of reaching the minds of children and make them acquainted with the commonly available and frequently used medicinal plants. Eligibility Schools. Garden Requirements A school herbal garden should be around 500 sq. meters and contain 10 to 15 species of medicinal plants, which can include tree species. If the proposed area is larger or smaller than 500 sq. meters, financial assistance can be adjusted on a pro-rata basis with a proper justification. Activities and Maintenance The school is responsible for maintaining the herbal garden, which includes irrigation, with the active participation of students and parent-teacher associations or NGOs. Students will be involved in tasks like labeling plants, watering, and weeding. This involvement helps students learn about the benefits and uses of the species they are nurturing. The school must also make special arrangements for garden maintenance during school vacation periods. Materials from the garden can be used for further propagation. Financial Assistance Financial assistance for a school herbal garden is provided in two phases: Establishment: Rs. 25,000 per school for the first year. Maintenance: Up to Rs. 7,000 per year for the next four years. Proposal Submission Eligible organizations can submit their proposals to the National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB) through the State Medicinal Plants Board (SMPB). The proposal will be reviewed by the Project Screening Committee (PSC) before it is approved by the Standing Finance Committee (SFC). For the application proforma and other details, click here.