5-lakh-lavender-plants-grown-in-j-k-to-be-given-to-farmers

In a significant development for Udhampur district's agricultural sector in Jammu and Kashmir, the Department of Agriculture has successfully grown approximately 5 lakh lavender mother plants in Incha village, Ramnagar tehsil.

 

This initiative marks the beginning of lavender farming in Udhampur, with the region's overall climatic conditions deemed feasible for this highly aromatic plant, from which essential oils and perfumes are made.

 

Lavender is used in pharmaceuticals as well as beauty products.

 

Utilising around 100 kanals of land in Incha village, the department has nurtured these lavender mother plants with care. These will soon be distributed to local farmers, offering dual benefits.

 

This initiative is expected to substantially increase farmers' incomes and mitigate crop damage caused by monkeys.

 

The region has struggled for years with a significant monkey population that often destroys crops like maize, leading to substantial losses.

 

Lavender cultivation, it’s expected, will transform Udhampur’s farming landscape by providing a lucrative alternative to traditional crops.

 

With high market demand for lavender products, farmers can expect substantial profits. Additionally, lavender repels pests, further enhancing its appeal.

 

 A local farmer Anju Devi, a resident of Incha village, is excited: “In our village, the department has provided lavender mother plants, and the flowers have already begun to bloom. We had heard a lot about limited farming earlier,” she said.

 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Dr Jitendra Singh from the Prime Minister's Office have launched several schemes to empower women and make them self-reliant.

 

Rafiq Ahamed Jaral, Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Ramnagar, highlighted the importance of lavender cultivation: “There are many areas in the Ramnagar tehsil with a suitable climate, which is perfect for lavender farming.”

 

He mentioned that 500,000 lavender saplings have been prepared and will be distributed to farmers soon. “By cultivating lavender, farmers can not only get rid of the monkey menace but also double their income,” he said.

 

Saloni Rai (IAS), Deputy Commissioner Udhampur, said the 500,000 lavender saplings had been grown on 100 kanals of land in Incha village. “We plan to plant another 500,000 this year. These will be distributed to farmers to help increase their income,” she said.