A two-day training program under the CSIR Aroma Mission Phase III was successfully organized on 26th–27th August 2025 at Village Umerpoti, Abhanpur Block, District Raipur, Chhattisgarh. The primary objective of the program was to promote the cultivation, processing, and value addition of aromatic crops in order to enhance rural livelihoods, support income diversification, and encourage sustainable agricultural practices in the region. The training program witnessed the active participation of more than 200 farmers from Umerpoti and nearby villages. The enthusiastic response highlighted the growing awareness and interest among farming communities in exploring high-value aromatic crops that are well-suited to the local agro-climatic conditions of Chhattisgarh.

During the two-day event, participants were provided with comprehensive technical knowledge and hands-on exposure through a variety of sessions. Farmers were taken to demonstration plots where they learned about the improved varieties of aromatic crops, recommended agronomic practices, soil and water management, and crop protection measures. Experts conducted practical exercises on scientific cultivation techniques, nursery raising, transplantation, irrigation scheduling, and integrated nutrient management. Special focus was given to post-harvest handling, distillation, and essential oil extraction techniques. Farmers were introduced to modern distillation units, storage methods, and ways to maintain oil quality for better market value. Sessions were conducted on processing aromatic crops into high-value products such as essential oils, natural fragrances, herbal extracts, and value-added items like soaps, perfumes, and incense. This helped farmers understand the potential of moving beyond cultivation to small-scale entrepreneurship.

The training also addressed the environmental benefits of aromatic crop cultivation, such as soil enrichment, crop diversification, and reduced pressure on chemical-intensive farming, aligning with the broader goals of sustainable agriculture. Overall, the program created a strong impact by building awareness, enhancing skills, and instilling confidence among farmers to adopt aromatic crops as a viable alternative for improving their socio-economic conditions. The event concluded with an assurance of continued support under the CSIR Aroma Mission Phase III through follow-up trainings, field visits and technical guidance.