PURPLE REVOLUTION (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Economy)

Context: The Council of Scientific & Industrial Research's Republic Day Tableau highlighted the unleashing of a Purple Revolution ushered through Lavender cultivation in Jammu & Kashmir.

Purple Revolution 

• About: The Union Ministry of Science & Technology launched the Purple Revolution in 2016 through CSIR's Aroma Mission.
• Free Lavender Saplings for New Farmers: First-time farmers received free lavender saplings under the mission, while experienced growers were charged Rs. 5-6 per sapling.
• Economic Shift to Aroma Crops: High monetary returns prompted farmers in Jammu and Kashmir's hilly areas to transition from traditional farming to aroma crops like lavender.
• Resilience of Aroma Crops: Aroma crops, including lavender, demonstrate resistance to both drought and pests.
• CSIR's Technical Support for Agri Start-ups: CSIR is actively providing technical support to promote the Agri Start-up trend in the Union Territory.
• Expansion to Other Hilly States: CSIR plans to extend the cultivation of aroma crops to hilly states with similar climates, including Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and the North-Eastern states.

Lavender Cultivation in India

• About: It is primarily focused in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu & Kashmir.
• Ideal Lavender Hub: Agriculture experts highlight Himachal Pradesh in northern India as the most suitable region for lavender cultivation.
• Climate Advantage: Himachal Pradesh boasts a mild climate with low humidity and abundant sunshine, creating an ideal environment for lavender growth.
• Soil Conditions: The region's well-drained soils play a crucial role in supporting successful lavender cultivation.