(a) whether the potentials of West Bengal for cultivation of medicinal plants and energy
plantations like Ethanol have been examined;
(b) if so, the details of the findings thereof alongwith the action taken thereon; and
(c) if not, the reasons therefor?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI KANTI LAL BHURIA)
(a) to (c): The National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB) has been set up under the Ministry
of Health and Family Welfare to deal with all aspects of promotion and cultivation of Medicinal
Plants in the country. The NMPB, have sanctioned 23 projects for promotion conservation,
development and cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants in respect of the State of West
Bengal at a total cost of Rs.199.30 lakh, during last 5 year (2001-02 to 2005-06). In India,
Ethanol is produced from molasses for blending in petrol to the extent of 5%.