Dr. Jitendra Singh Urges Replication of Jammu & Kashmir’s ‘Purple Revolution’ in Northeast to Boost Aroma and Floriculture Entrepreneurship (Daily Krishicode Agriculture News)

Guwahati, November 5, 2025

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences and Vice President of CSIR, has called for the replication of the “Purple Revolution” in India’s Northeastern region to harness its vast bio-potential and promote science-led agro-entrepreneurship.

Speaking at the Stakeholder-cum-Awareness Meet and Distribution of Quality Planting Materials under the CSIR–Aroma Mission and CSIR–Floriculture Mission, organized by CSIR–NEIST (North East Institute of Science and Technology), Dr. Singh highlighted how aromatic and floricultural crops can transform the rural economy by creating livelihood opportunities and strengthening India’s bioeconomy.

Key Points

• The Northeast’s rich biodiversity and favourable agro-climatic conditions make it ideal for cultivating high-value aromatic and medicinal crops.
• Dr. Singh urged farmers to adopt lavender, citronella, lemongrass, and patchouli, crops known for their strong market demand and profitability.
• The initiative aligns with the government’s goal of turning the Northeast into an “Agro-Entrepreneurial Hub”, integrating scientific innovation with traditional farming systems.

Science-Driven Rural Transformation

Dr. Singh praised CSIR–NEIST’s work in empowering farmers, entrepreneurs, and youth through training and access to quality planting material. He emphasized that CSIR’s Aroma and Floriculture Missions are examples of how research and innovation can directly improve farm incomes, promote value addition, and support sustainable development.

The Purple Revolution Model

The “Purple Revolution,” pioneered under the CSIR–Aroma Mission in Jammu & Kashmir, demonstrated how lavender cultivation can significantly enhance farmer income and generate rural employment. Dr. Singh encouraged Northeastern farmers to replicate this model, leveraging government support and scientific expertise to build a thriving floriculture and aroma industry in the region.

Vision for the Future

“The Northeast’s bio-potential is not just a natural asset—it’s an economic engine waiting to be harnessed through science and innovation,” said Dr. Jitendra Singh.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to promoting agri-entrepreneurship, enhancing value chains, and linking farmers with emerging markets in essential oils, perfumery, cosmetics, and natural wellness sectors.

Dr. Jitendra Singh’s call to replicate the Purple Revolution underscores the government’s strategy to transform the Northeast into a hub for aroma, medicinal, and floriculture-based entrepreneurship, integrating science, sustainability, and rural innovation to drive India’s bioeconomic growth.