A regional centre of Indian Institute of Pulses Research (IIPR), Kanpur, in collaboration with CSK HP Agriculture University, will be established in the state. Till the establishment of the regional centre, the university would offer its infrastructure, land and other facilities to Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) and research stations at Sundarnagar in Mandi and Kukumseri in Lahaul-Spiti district for crop cafeteria. The state was deficient in pulses and with the new centre, research and extension work would get an impetus. The regional centre would cater to all north hill states and the IIPR would start nursery raising work in this season at the facilities offered by the university.

• According to the National Medicinal Plant Board (NMPB), Ayush Ministry,  the university would try to popularise the concept of ‘one district, one medicinal plant’. 
• The university would submit a comprehensive proposal on medicinal plants to the board to propel research and conservation work on these valuable varieties.
• The university would also submit a roadmap on seabuckthorn development in high altitudes.
• The scientists were advised to work for the release of seabuckthorn at the national level and simultaneously work for the introduction and cultivation of exotic Russian varieties.

Sea buckthorn

• Sea buckthorn is a plant. The leaves, flowers, seeds, and fruits are used to make medicine.
• Sea buckthorn is used for heart health, skin conditions, swelling (inflammation), and other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support any of these uses.
• In foods, sea buckthorn berries are used to make jellies, juices, purees, and sauces.
• In manufacturing, sea buckthorn is used in cosmetics and anti-aging products.