CONTEXT

• Traditional farming in J&K, especially maize and subsistence crops, provided low returns.
• Farmers faced challenges: sloped terrain, water scarcity, and declining soil fertility.
• To improve rural livelihoods and land use, diversification became essential.
• The Aroma Mission (launched mid-2000s) by CSIR-IIIM aimed to promote aromatic crops like lavender.

CONCEPT

• Lavender: an aromatic, perennial plant used in essential oils and cosmetics.
• Nicknamed “Purple Revolution” for transforming agriculture in J&K.
• Grows well in sloped, marginal lands with low water requirements.
• Highly profitable crop due to global demand for organic products.
• Suitable for climate-resilient farming in ecologically sensitive zones.
• Crop cycle & input cost lower compared to traditional farming.

CURRENT  

• Over 1,200 hectares in J&K under lavender cultivation.
• Key districts:
  • Kashmir Division: Pulwama, Budgam, Anantnag
  • Jammu Division: Doda, Udhampur, Ramban, Kathua, Poonch
• CSIR-IIIM support includes:
  • Free distribution of over 45 lakh lavender plantlets
  • Farmer training and awareness campaigns
• Income jump: From ~₹20,000/acre (traditional crops) to over ₹2 lakh/acre (lavender).
• Lavender oil and by-products cater to cosmetic and aromatherapy industries.
• Helps reverse urban migration by making farming economically viable.
• Lavender farming aligns with Atmanirbhar Bharat and vocal-for-local goals.

MAINS QUESTION

1. Evaluate the impact of lavender cultivation on rural livelihoods and land use in J&K, highlighting its potential for sustainable development.
2. Discuss the role of CSIR-IIIM in promoting lavender cultivation in J&K, including the support provided to farmers and the benefits of the initiative.