CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM), Jammu, organized a four-day hands-on training programme under the DST-sponsored Science, Technology & Innovation (STI) Hub Project. The programme aimed to empower tribal farmers by providing scientific training in aromatic crops, value addition, and livelihood opportunities. The training was held in collaboration with CSIR-National Metallurgical Laboratory (NML), Jamshedpur and the Xavier Institute of Tribal Education, Gamharia. Tribal farmers from six villages of Gamharia block, West Singhbhum district, Jharkhand took part with great enthusiasm. During the sessions, participants learned about agarbatti and candle making with aromatic oils, soil testing, seed quality, lemongrass cultivation, and distillation methods. They also received guidance on entrepreneurship, product packaging, and market linkages to improve income opportunities. Practical demonstrations were conducted at CSIR-IIIM Jammu and its Chatha Field Station.

Day 1 Inauguration and Technical Session:

The 5-day Hands-on Training for Tribal Farmers was inaugurated on August 27, 2025 at CSIR–IIIM, Jammu. The inaugural session highlighted the objectives of the Aroma Mission, the role of CSIR–IIIM in promoting aromatic crop-based livelihoods, and the importance of sustainable practices. Participants were welcomed and briefed on the training. The inaugural session featured technical sessions. The inaugural day witnessed participation of Tribal farmers from six Villages of Gamharia Block, West Singhbhum District, Jharkhand. During the five-day programme, participants were trained in techniques for product development and post-harvest processing, with a special emphasis on rural enterprise.

Day 2 – Candle Making Training:

On the second day of the 5-day Training Programme at CSIR–IIIM Jammu, a dedicated candle-making session was conducted, focusing on the use of aromatic oils in value-added products. Participants were trained in the preparation of scented candles, including wax selection, fragrance blending, molding, and safe handling techniques. The session emphasized creativity, quality control, and small-scale business potential in the aromatic candle industry. This hands-on training aimed to equip participants with practical skills to develop their own aromatic product lines, enhancing self-employment opportunities in rural and semi-urban areas.

Day 3 – Agarbatti and Dhoop Making Training:

On the third day of the 5-day Training Programme under DST-sponsored Science, Technology & Innovation (STI) Hub Project, participants received hands-on training in Agarbatti and Dhoop making using aromatic plant-based raw materials. The session focused on the formulation, blending of natural ingredients, and techniques involved in preparing high-quality incense products. Experts from CSIR–IIIM Jammu demonstrated the complete process from mixing and rolling to drying and packaging emphasizing the scope of value addition and entrepreneurship in the aromatic products sector. The hands-on session aimed at enhancing participants’ skills in developing value-added aromatic products using essential oils and natural ingredients. The session aimed to empower farmers, women, and rural youth with practical skills to create marketable aromatic products, promoting entrepreneurship and livelihood generation through small-scale aromatic enterprises.

Day 4 – Interactive Session and Field Visit:

On the fourth day a field visit was organized to provide participants with practical exposure to model aromatic plantations. A special focus was given to soil analysis, where participants were introduced to the importance of soil testing in aromatic crop cultivation. They learned how to assess soil quality, interpret soil reports, and make informed decisions for optimal crop performance. An interactive session was also organized, where farmers’ questions were addressed and they were encouraged to use their new skills for community development. Participants shared their feedback and experiences, highlighting the knowledge and skills gained in aromatic crop cultivation and value-added product development.

Day 5 – Demonstration of Distillation Unit and Valedictory:

On the final and fifth day participants were exposed to live demonstration of distillation unit. Additionally, quality planting material (QPM) of selected aromatic crops was distributed to the participants to encourage hands-on cultivation and adoption of improved varieties.

The programme concluded on 31^th August 2025, with the distribution of certificates to all participants as a mark of successful completion of the training. The initiative highlighted CSIR-IIIM’s commitment to supporting rural development and promoting tribal entrepreneurship in the aromatic sector.