STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: Director of CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Dr. Zabeer Ahmed on Thursday reviewed the preparation of the ‘Lavender Festival’ which is being organized on 31st May-1st June, 2025 at Bhaderwah, Doda.
The meeting brought together leading scientists and lavender farmers from the region to initiate discussions and make key decisions regarding the upcoming Lavender Festival.
The Heads of various Divisions, Nodal Scientist, CSIR-Aroma Mission, Head of Institute Innovation Cell, the progressive farmers of the region and others stakeholders were also present in the meeting. In this meeting, the Director first obtained the inputs and suggestions for organizing the festival and also discussed the format of the event.
The decisions with regard to the dates, venue and the various activities planned during the event were also taken. Dr. Zabeer Ahmed while conducting the activity wise review disclosed that Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences and the Vice President CSIR has consented to be the Chief Guest.
He also informed that besides Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Director General CSIR and Secretary to GoI, DSIR, many other CSIR Directors, Heads of institutions, policy makers, Investors, Industries people, Startup and progressive farmers in large number are expected to attend this event.
On the occasion, an interactive session was also held in which the farmers shared their experiences and the ground-level challenges they are currently facing-particularly those related to the sale of lavender and the issue of low market prices. The scientists and dignitaries actively listened to these concerns and engaged in a productive dialogue to find viable solutions.
Emphasizing the importance of market linkages, Dr. Zabeer Ahmed said, “There is a strong need to enhance the marketing channels for lavender growers so that they receive fair prices and wider recognition for their produce. Our focus should be on branding and promoting lavender-based products across national and international markets”. Further, Dr. Ahmed reaffirmed its commitment to empowering farmers through scientific guidance, capacity building, and institutional support, and the institute continues to serve as a bridge between cutting-edge research and community development through such initiatives.
Earlier, the Nodal Scientist of Aroma Mission, Dr. Suphla Gupta gave a detailed presentation about the various components like the technical sessions and the exhibitions and the round table discussions planned to be held during this two day event.
Among many others who attended the meeting were Er. Abdul Rahim, Chief Scientists and Head RMBD & IST division, Dr. Saurabh Saran, Principal Scientist, Bharat Bhushan of M/S Himalayan Essential Oil Producers, Touqeer Bhagbhan from JK Aroma and Arjun Razdan of Girdhari Lal Holistic.
