Deadline: 20-Jan-2026
The National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB) under the Ministry of Ayush is providing financial support to establish Poshan Vatikas in Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) across India. This initiative promotes nutrition, health, and sustainability for tribal children through fruit, vegetable, and medicinal plant gardens with structured funding over three years.
Overview of the Initiative
The National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB), functioning under the Ministry of Ayush, has launched a funding initiative under its Central Sector Scheme (CSS) on Conservation, Development, and Sustainable Management of Medicinal Plants.
The scheme aims to support the establishment of Poshan Vatikas (nutrition gardens) in Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) operated by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
The core objective is to improve nutritional intake, health awareness, and well-being of tribal school children by integrating sustainable horticulture and medicinal plant cultivation within school campuses.
What is a Poshan Vatika?
A Poshan Vatika is a dedicated nutrition garden designed to grow:
• Fruits
• Vegetables
• Medicinal plants with nutritional and therapeutic value
These gardens act as living nutrition and learning spaces, directly contributing to students’ daily diet while promoting awareness of traditional medicinal plants and sustainable agriculture.
Key Features of the Scheme
Garden Size and Plant Diversity
• Area coverage ranges from 100 square meters to 2 acres
• Cultivation of at least 30 plant species
• Focus on nutritionally rich and locally suitable species
Supported Activities
The scheme provides support for both establishment and long-term sustainability, including:
• Garden design and layout
• Land development and site preparation
• Protection and fencing
• Preparation of planting beds
• Procurement of saplings, seeds, manure, and soil inputs
• Installation of irrigation facilities
• Signage and basic walking trails
• Awareness and orientation programs
• Maintenance and upkeep for three years
Financial Support and Budget Structure
The total financial assistance provided under the scheme is INR 7,00,000 per EMRS over a period of three years.
Year-wise Funding Allocation
Year 1 – Establishment Phase
• Total support: INR 4,50,000
• Covers saplings, planting material, manure, soil preparation, and initial infrastructure
Year 2 – Maintenance Phase
• Total support: INR 1,25,000
• Covers garden upkeep, irrigation, and plant care
Year 3 – Maintenance Phase
• Total support: INR 1,25,000
• Ensures sustainability and continuity of the Poshan Vatika
Who is Eligible?
The following entities are eligible to receive financial support under this scheme:
• Government organizations
• Non-government organizations (NGOs)
• Institutions with demonstrated experience and technical expertise in horticulture, medicinal plants, or related fields
Eligible organizations must be capable of executing, maintaining, and monitoring Poshan Vatika projects within EMRS campuses.
Why This Scheme Matters
Nutritional Impact
• Enhances access to fresh, nutritious food for tribal children
• Supports dietary diversity and micronutrient intake
Educational Value
• Introduces students to medicinal plants and traditional knowledge
• Encourages environmental awareness and hands-on learning
Sustainability and Health
• Promotes eco-friendly cultivation practices
• Supports long-term health and well-being of students
Community and Institutional Benefits
• Strengthens school infrastructure
• Encourages self-sustaining food systems within educational institutions
How the Scheme Works
Step-by-Step Implementation Process
- Identification of EMRS site and available land area
- Selection of suitable plant species (minimum 30)
- Garden design and land preparation
- Procurement of planting materials and inputs
- Establishment of irrigation and protection measures
- Plantation and initial maintenance
- Ongoing care and monitoring for three years
- Awareness activities and student engagement
Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Selecting plant species unsuitable for local climate
• Poor planning of irrigation and drainage
• Inadequate maintenance after the first year
• Lack of awareness programs for students and staff
• Underutilization of available land
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the main goal of the NMPB Poshan Vatika Scheme?
The scheme aims to improve nutrition and health among tribal children by establishing sustainable nutrition and medicinal plant gardens in EMRS.
2. Which schools are covered under this initiative?
Only Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs are covered.
3. How much funding is provided per school?
Each EMRS can receive INR 7,00,000 over three years.
4. Is maintenance funding included?
Yes. Maintenance funding is provided for two years after establishment.
5. Who can implement the project?
Government bodies and NGOs with relevant expertise are eligible to implement the project.
6. How many plant species are required?
Each Poshan Vatika must cultivate a minimum of 30 plant species.
7. Does the scheme include awareness activities?
Yes. Basic awareness programs and educational signage are included to ensure sustainability.
Conclusion
The NMPB Poshan Vatika Scheme for EMRS is a strategic initiative that combines nutrition, education, traditional medicine, and sustainability. By supporting the creation of structured nutrition gardens within tribal residential schools, the Ministry of Ayush and NMPB are investing in the long-term health, learning, and well-being of tribal children across India.
For more information, visit NMPB.
