Participatory learning and sharing of knowledgewas the process
adopted during the present field-based skill development programs
. In this context, 50 cluster
level meetings were organized with farmers, traders, herbal
healers, public representatives, experts, women self-help groups,and nongovernment organizations and officers from government
departments. More than 200 participants actively participated in
the workshops and meetings and benefited from them. Discussions
revolved around uses, cultivation technology, market demand,
transportation process, and conservation strategies. The selection
of progressive farmers was based on their willingness to cultivate
MAPs as a cash crop.