The Uttaranchal Government, Rajiv Gandhi Foundation and Agrisud International have implemented a pilot project of "Poverty alleviation through cultivation of Aromatic Plants", in Sehaspur Block, from March 2003 to November 2005.

In September 06, Agrisud and RGF have conducted a field survey in order to assess the present field situation and the problems encountered by the farmer’s organization. At that date, the cultivation of aromatic plants, mainly Lemon Grass was increasing but problems were identified in processing and marketing of products. They want to pursue the support to the farmers' organization in order to increase its capacities. Therefore, Himalayan Action Research Centre (HARC) has been selected to provide support to the farmers' organization for duration of one year, started from 1^st February 2007.  

There are possibilities of aromatic and medicinal plantation in Uttarakhand. The various micro climatic zones are providing organic diversification due to which local farmers of Shashpur block of Dehradun district have initiated growing lemon grass in three-four years. Production of lemon grass has given chance to farmers to introduce new crop at their farm. The production of lemon grass can be the profaitable crop, which will help in improving their economy. The main feature of the new crop is that project is facilitating in production, processing and as well as in market linkage also. A processing unit is also established in production area so that process of value addition may take place at farm level itself. There are about 50 growers who are growing lemon grass in Shaspur block. More farmers can be encouraged to grow lemon grass but first they should be assured that lemon grass is more profitable crop then other crops and for this a joint production, marketing and work style strategy is needed.