The recent statement from the Union State Minister for Science and Technology has brought attention to the potential opportunities offered by the Purple Revolution. Initiated in 2016 by the Ministry of Science and Technology under the Aroma Mission, the Purple Revolution aims to boost the indigenous aromatic crop-based agro-economy.
Purpose and Progress of the Purple Revolution
The aspiration of the Purple Revolution is to shift from foreign aromatics to locally grown species. In order to promote this change, lavender seedlings were provided at no cost to new producers, while experienced lavender farmers received between Rs 5 and Rs 6 per plant. The establishment and development of lavender farming have taken place across almost every district of Jammu and Kashmir, under the initiative of CSIR-Aroma Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (IIIM). Significant progress has been noted particularly in districts like Kathua, Udhampur, Doda, Kishtwar, Rajouri, Srinagar, Bandipora, Budgam, Ganderbal, Anantnag, Kulgam, Baramulla, and more.
Lavender Products and their Market Value
Lavender oil is the key product yielded from lavender farming, selling at a minimum price of Rs. 10,000 per litre. Other products include lavender water, which is used to make incense sticks, and Hydrosol, derived from distillation of the flowers, which is used for soaps and room fresheners.
Significance of the Purple Revolution
The Purple Revolution aligns with the government’s objective of doubling agricultural earnings by 2022 and offers livelihood prospects for aspiring farmers and agri-entrepreneurs. It also bolsters the Start-Up India programme by stimulating an entrepreneurial spirit in the region. Over 500 young people have already benefited from the Purple Revolution, experiencing a doubling of their income.
The CSIR Aroma Mission
The Aroma Mission, implemented by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), aims to transform the aroma sector through targeted interventions in agriculture, processing, and product development. The mission is expected to lead to a surge in the growth of the aroma industry and boost rural employment. During Phase I, the CSIR helped cultivate 6000 hectares of land across 46 Aspirational districts nationwide. The mission also trained around 44,000 workers. Phase II is now underway, aiming to train another 45,000 personnel and support over 75,000 farming families.
Notable Trivia
Interestingly, Dr. Norman Ernest Borlaug, an American agronomist who played a crucial role in the Green Revolution in India, was mentioned in a previous year question of the UPSC Civil Services Examination. Recognized as the father of the Green Revolution, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his profound contributions to agriculture and society. This trivia demonstrates the significance and global reach of such agricultural programs and missions in shaping a country’s agronomic landscape.
