Bhaderwah in J&K Turning into a National Hub for Agricultural Startups

Bhaderwah, Jammu & Kashmir, June 2, 2025 – Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated the two-day Lavender Festival 2025, organised by CSIR-IIIM Jammu, celebrating the town’s transformation into a national hub for agricultural startups.

Lavender: From Local Bloom to National Identity

Speaking at the event, Dr. Singh pressed on the significance and the success of lavender cultivation in Bhaderwah, crediting it with giving the town both a “national identity and a national role in India’s economic growth.”

“Lavender has not just added fragrance to these mountains – it has added identity, income, and inspiration,” Dr. Singh emphasised.

Lavender Startups Generate ₹65 Lakh Annually Per Entrepreneur

Bhaderwah has numerous local entrepreneurs, many of whom are first-generation farmers, who are earning an average of ₹65 lakh annually through lavender farming and its value-added products. This success has inspired others to leave conventional jobs and embrace agriculture as a sustainable and profitable venture.

50 Distillation Units Operational, Products Supplied Across India

According to Dr. Singh, Bhaderwah boasts 50 fully functional lavender distillation units, which supply essential oils and other lavender-based products to Maharashtra and several other states. The model has also garnered interest from neighbouring states like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and the North-Eastern region.

PM Modi’s Support Key to Purple Revolution’s National Attention

Dr. Singh credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for elevating Bhaderwah’s Purple Revolution through a mention in his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ address. “That ten-minute spotlight gave the best possible global introduction to Bhaderwah,” he said.

Lavender as a Catalyst in India’s Economic Growth

Dr. Singh linked the success of Bhaderwah with broader national progress. He stated that “India has moved from the 5th to the 4th largest economy, and sectors like lavender cultivation will be pivotal in driving this ascent.”

Economic Resilience Amidst Challenges

Addressing doubts about India’s economic resilience, Dr. Singh cited the nation’s growth even during challenging times, such as Operation Sindoor. “India’s economy has not only remained buoyant but also grown. That is a fitting reply to sceptics,” he stated.

Festival Highlights and Way Forward

The festival was attended by entrepreneurs and visitors from across the country. The festival showcased lavender’s potential through interactive displays, field visits, and product exhibitions. Dr. Singh praised the efforts of Dr. Zabeer and the CSIR-IIIM team for organising the landmark event and invited the public to visit Bhaderwah during peak bloom in the coming days.

The Lavender Festival 2025 not only celebrates a crop but also marks the rise of Bhaderwah as a hub of innovation, sustainability, and inclusive economic progress.

REF: https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=2133152

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