On 29^th September 2025, under CSIR–IIIM Jammu Aroma Mission Phase III, a farmers’ training program was organized at Gram Panchayat Seli, Block Dhauladevi, District Almora, Uttarakhand. The training focused on medicinal and aromatic plants such as Rosemary and Lavender, where farmers were informed about the benefits of cultivation and industrial applications of these crops. Participants were sensitized to the potential of these plants in enhancing livelihoods and creating new opportunities through commercial cultivation and value addition.

The program focused on the promotion of medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs), with a special emphasis on crops such as rosemary, lavender, and other high-value aromatic plants suitable for the agro-climatic conditions of the region. During the training, farmers were provided with detailed knowledge on cultivation techniques of Rosemary, Lavender, and other aromatic crops, including land preparation, planting methods, irrigation, and harvesting practices and Industrial applications of these plants, such as essential oil extraction, processing, and value addition into products with high commercial demand.

Experts emphasized the potential of these crops to create sustainable livelihood opportunities, especially in hilly regions like Almora where conventional farming often faces challenges. The training also included interactive sessions, where farmers raised queries and shared their experiences, as well as practical demonstrations to provide hands-on exposure to cultivation and processing techniques. The program concluded with an emphasis on the role of CSIR–IIIM Jammu Aroma Mission Phase III in empowering farmers, promoting diversification of agriculture, and contributing to rural economic development. Farmers expressed great interest in adopting rosemary, lavender, and other aromatic crops, acknowledging the potential of these plants to generate additional income and strengthen community-based enterprises.