On 27 February 2026, a Lavender (QPM) Distribution and Awareness Programme was successfully organized at Chhatriari–Basantgarh Village, Tehsil Ramnagar, District Udhampur, J&K, by CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM) Jammu under the flagship initiative of CSIR-Aroma Mission (Phase–III). This was the first such programme organized in Basantgarh Village, marking an important step towards the promotion of lavender cultivation in the area.

The programme aimed to promote lavender cultivation in the region by providing farmers with high-quality planting material and technical guidance. During the event, a total of 36,400 Quality Planting Material (QPM) of Lavender was distributed among 24 beneficiary farmers. Alongside the distribution, an awareness session was conducted to educate farmers on improved cultivation practices, crop management, harvesting techniques, and the economic potential of lavender farming.

Experts from CSIR-IIIM interacted with the farmers, highlighting the benefits of aromatic crop cultivation as a sustainable livelihood option, particularly in hilly and rain-fed areas of Udhampur district. The initiative is expected to enhance farmers’ income, encourage crop diversification, and strengthen the lavender value chain in the region.

The programme witnessed active participation and enthusiasm from the local farming community, reflecting the growing interest in aromatic crops under the CSIR-Aroma Mission.