Potential of Medicinal Plant Cultivation as an Eco-Economic Model for Rural Rajasthan

Dr. Mukesh Kumar Sharma, Dr. Babita

Medicinal plants, Rajasthan, eco-economic model, rural development, ethnobotany, sustainable agriculture, biodiversity, traditional knowledge, market analysis, socio-economic benefits

Medicinal plant cultivation presents a unique opportunity for rural Rajasthan to develop a sustainable eco-economic model. This research explores how traditional knowledge and practices, coupled with scientific advances, can enable communities to leverage local biodiversity for economic upliftment, ecological balance, and cultural preservation. Through review of ethnobotanical data, market analysis, and field observations, the paper assesses socio-economic benefits, ecological impacts, constraints, and recommendations for scaling up medicinal plant agriculture in Rajasthan. The findings reflect that medicinal plant cultivation, if integrated thoughtfully, can empower local societies, restore degraded lands, and create resilient income streams, contributing to rural prosperity and environmental conservation.