The CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM), Jammu culminated the Two-Day Skill Development Program under the CSIR Aroma Mission Phase-III, aimed at empowering women through scientific training in aromatic crop cultivation, value addition, product development, and rural entrepreneurship. Participants received hands-on training in aroma candle making, incense stick and dhoop preparation, fragrance blending, product packaging, marketing, and value chain development. Practical sessions also covered dipping and packing of agarbatti & dhoop and the use of lavender oil in value-added products.

Day 1 – Agarbatti and Dhoop Making Training:

The Two-day Skill Development Programme on Sustainable Aromatic Agriculture under CSIR-Aroma Mission Phase–III was inaugurated on September15, 2025 at CSIR–IIIM, Jammu. On the first day of the Two-day Skill Development Programme under CSIR–Aroma Mission Phase–III, participants underwent practical training in Agarbatti and Dhoop making using aromatic plant-based raw materials. The day began with an address by Dr. Suphla Gupta, Nodal Scientist of Aroma Mission–III, who provided an insightful overview of the mission, its objectives, and its impact on transforming rural livelihoods through sustainable aromatic agriculture and product development. The training focused on formulation techniques, blending of natural ingredients and methods for producing high-quality incense products. Experts from CSIR–IIIM Jammu demonstrated the entire process, from mixing and rolling to drying and packaging, while highlighting opportunities for value addition and entrepreneurship in the aromatic products sector. This hands-on session was designed to equip farmers, women, and rural youth with the skills to create marketable aromatic products, fostering entrepreneurship and supporting livelihood generation through small-scale aromatic enterprises.

Day 2 – Candle Making Training:

On the second day 16^th September, the Training Program 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.

Valedictory:

The program concluded on 16^th September 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.