New Delhi: Jammu and Kashmir is getting known as a hub for agricultural startups, as stated by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Science & Technology, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy, and Space. He highlighted the Republic Day tableau showcasing lavender farms in Bhaderwah as evidence of the region’s prominence in the “Purple Revolution,” now being adopted in other Himalayan states and Nagaland. This initiative, rooted in Bhaderwah, aims to boost the economy through lavender cultivation.
Dr. Singh recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s mention of this success story during his “Mann Ki Baat” broadcast, emphasizing the Aroma Mission’s role in providing an alternative economic avenue. He praised the over 3,000 lavender entrepreneurs from Bhaderwah for showcasing agriculture as a lucrative startup option, aligning with PM Modi’s vision for India’s economic growth by 2047.
Speaking at a Kisan Sammelan organized by CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Dr. Singh celebrated the recent portrayal of Bhaderwah’s lavender farms at Kartavya Path in New Delhi on Republic Day, noting its inspiration for other states. He highlighted the involvement of more than three thousand youth from J&K in this mission, emphasizing self-employment opportunities.
Dr. Singh credited PM Modi and the government’s support for the success of the Aroma Mission, which has led to significant revenue from lavender products. He reiterated PM Modi’s call for Startup India, Stand Up India, which has seen a substantial increase in startups, positioning India as a global player in this field.
Encouraging youth to join the agricultural startup ecosystem, Dr. Singh emphasized its contribution to India’s economic growth and achieving the national goal of becoming a leading economy by 2047. He stressed the importance of exploring untapped areas for economic development, with Jammu and Kashmir’s “Purple Revolution” playing a crucial role.
Discussing measures for the safety of border residents, Dr. Singh highlighted the construction of bunkers to protect against border firing and improved road connectivity for remote areas in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly Kathua. These initiatives aim to enhance safety and ease travel for residents.