In a pioneering effort to promote sustainable agriculture and economic growth, the Indian Institute of Integrated Medicine (IIIM) Jammu, in collaboration with local sericulturists and esteemed artisan Dr Rubia Bukhari, organized an enlightening Awareness Programme on Lavender Cultivation. The event saw the distribution of quality planting material of lavender among farmers in Mendhar Poonch.The initiative garnered an overwhelming response from the community, with around 130-150 enthusiastic farmers participating. These individuals showed keen interest in venturing into lavender cultivation, recognizing its potential to revolutionize the agricultural landscape of the region. Over 1.5 lakh units of quality planting material of lavender were distributed among the farmers by Dr Siya Ram Meena, Senior Technical Officer at IIIM Jammu, Dr Rubia Bukhari, Dr Wajid Shah, Mr Akash Verma, Technical Assistant at IIIM Jammu, and Mr Vinod Phogat, Project Assistant at IIIM Jammu.

Dr Zabeer Ahmad, Director of IIIM Jammu, and Suphla Gupta, Senior Principal Scientist and Nodal Aroma Mission, conveyed their heartfelt congratulations to the people of Poonch for their enthusiastic response towards lavender cultivation. Dr Ahmad expressed delight at the overwhelming support from the community, highlighting the importance of promoting local agricultural initiatives and the transformative potential of lavender cultivation in fostering sustainable development.The programme, led by Dr Siya Ram Meena, commenced with informative discussions on lavender cultivation techniques. Dr. Meena provided valuable insights into soil preparation, irrigation methods, pest management, and harvesting techniques tailored to the unique climatic conditions of Mendhar Poonch. His comprehensive guidance equipped the farmers with practical knowledge and instilled confidence in them to embark on their lavender cultivation journey.
Dr Rubia Bukhari, a renowned sericulturist and founder of the Dr Rubia Bukhari Cocoon Artistry Initiative, expressed gratitude to IIIM Jammu for selecting Poonch as the focal point of the lavender cultivation initiative. She highlighted the region’s potential for success in lavender cultivation, envisioning Poonch as the future hub of the “purple revolution,” akin to Bhaderwah.
Dr Wajid Shah hailed the event as the beginning of a new era for Poonch district, foreseeing a prosperous future through lavender cultivation. Special appreciation was extended to Mr. Touqeer Bagban, Managing Director of JK Aroma, for his unwavering support throughout the initiative.Farmers expressed gratitude to IIIM Jammu and Dr Rubia Bukhari for spearheading the transformative initiative. Their collective enthusiasm and commitment augur well for the success of lavender cultivation, marking a historic milestone in the region’s agricultural journey.As the event concluded, optimism filled the air, setting the stage for a flourishing future where the tranquil hues and fragrant scents of lavender adorn the landscape of Mendhar Poonch.