On August 12, 2024, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (IIIM) organized a training-cum-awareness program at Behata, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, as part of the CSIR Aroma Mission-III. The program, which focused on “Catalyzing Rural Empowerment through Cultivation, Processing, Value Addition, and Marketing of Aromatic Crops,” attracted 102 farmers from the region.
The event aimed to educate and empower farmers by introducing them to the numerous benefits and opportunities associated with aromatic crops. During the training, CSIR-IIIM experts provided detailed guidance on selecting suitable aromatic crops for local conditions, implementing effective cultivation techniques, and utilizing advanced processing methods to enhance the value of their produce.
In addition to the technical aspects, the program also emphasized the importance of marketing strategies to help farmers effectively commercialize their aromatic crops. Participants were informed about the various support systems available under the CSIR Aroma Mission, such as access to high-quality planting materials, ongoing technical support, and market linkage opportunities.
The program concluded with an interactive session, allowing the 102 participating farmers to ask questions, share their experiences, and discuss their challenges with the experts. This initiative is part of CSIR’s ongoing efforts to promote rural development and economic growth by leveraging the potential of aromatic crops, which can significantly improve the livelihoods of farming communities in the region.