report by swati
Ramgarh
Ramgarh herbalTea Gains Global Recognition as Uttarakhand’s Women-Led Enterprise Flourishes
Ramgarh / Nainital | The Headline Post
A women-led herbal tea initiative in Ramgarh block of Nainital district has emerged as a remarkable success story of rural entrepreneurship, with products made from locally cultivated medicinal herbs now gaining recognition in international markets.
The initiative has been developed under the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) and is being promoted by the Uttarakhand government as part of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami’s vision of women empowerment and an “Atmanirbhar Uttarakhand”.
300 Women Transform Rural Economy
The Aromatic Plant Cluster established in the Nathuakhan region of Ramgarh has become a model of self-employment and grassroots economic development.
More than 300 women from eight gram panchayats are engaged in the scientific cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants and in the production of premium herbal tea blends.
According to officials, government-supported training programmes, technical guidance, and marketing assistance have enabled the women to establish sustainable livelihood opportunities and significantly improve their household incomes.
Made from Himalayan Medicinal Herbs
The herbal teas are prepared using a variety of locally grown medicinal and aromatic plants, including:
Chamomile Tulsi Mint
Thyme Rosemary
Buransh (Rhododendron)
Lemongrass
The products are marketed as health-enhancing herbal teas rich in natural therapeutic properties. Their distinctive flavour, aroma, and wellness benefits have contributed to growing demand beyond local markets.
From Local Shelves to International Markets
What began as a community-based initiative is now reaching customers outside India. Improved branding and modern packaging introduced with government support have helped position the product competitively in wider markets.
The herbal tea is currently available in 250-gram and 500-gram packs, priced between ₹150 and ₹300.
At a Glance
Women involved
300+
Across 8 gram panchayats
Location
Nathuakhan
Ramgarh block, Nainital
Pack sizes
250g–500g
Modern branded packaging
Retail price
₹150–₹300
Per pack
Market reach
Local, national, and international demand
A Strong Model of Women Empowerment
Officials say the project is no longer merely a livelihood programme. It has evolved into a women entrepreneurship model that is creating employment, strengthening rural supply chains, and adding value to locally available natural resources.
The participating women are not only increasing family incomes but are also contributing to local economic activity through cultivation, processing, packaging, and marketing.
‘Vocal for Local’ Goes Global
The success of Ramgarh’s herbal tea demonstrates how traditional Himalayan resources can achieve global market acceptance when combined with modern technology, skill development, branding, and government support.
The initiative is increasingly being cited as an example of how rural women can become key drivers of economic transformation while preserving and promoting Uttarakhand’s natural heritage.
“Ramgarh’s herbal tea has become a living example of how local products can build a strong identity in global markets when communities receive the right training, technology, and institutional support,”
officials associated with the programme said.
