Jammu, 08 June (H.S.): The two-day Lavender Festival 2026 concluded in Bhaderwah with stakeholders from the government, scientific community, industry and farming sector reaffirming their commitment to transform the region into a globally recognised centre for lavender cultivation, processing and aroma-based entrepreneurship.

Organised by the CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM) under the CSIR Aroma Mission, the festival brought together farmers, startup founders, scientists, industry leaders, students and policymakers under the theme “Lavender Goes Global.”

The event highlighted the remarkable journey of Bhaderwah from a traditional agricultural region to what is increasingly being recognised as India’s Lavender Capital.

The second day of the festival featured technical sessions, industry interactions, buyer-seller meetings and presentations by successful entrepreneurs and farmers.

Representatives from leading aroma and fragrance companies shared market insights and explored opportunities for strengthening linkages between growers and industry players.

Startup founders and innovators also showcased value-added products and discussed emerging opportunities in the lavender ecosystem.

Addressing the valedictory session, Director CSIR-IIIM Jammu, Dr. Zabeer Ahmed, said the overwhelming response to the two-day festival reflected the growing success of the Aroma Mission and the vision outlined by Hon’ble Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh during the inauguration of the festival.

He said the Hon’ble Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh’s call to take “Lavender Goes Global” beyond a slogan and transform it into a practical roadmap for farmers, entrepreneurs and industry stakeholders would guide future efforts of CSIR-IIIM and its partners.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Krishan Kumar