A new era of prosperity for the local farmers is being ushered in by the fragrant lavender fields that are changing the landscape of Jammu & Kashmir
Lavender was brought to the area in 2016 as part of the CSIR-Aroma Mission's Purple Revolution, which aimed to increase rural incomes and strengthen communities
Farmers in the Sirhama village transform once-barren land into a fragrant paradise by harvesting vivid purple blooms over eight hectares
Lavender grows well in Kashmir's rich soil and temperate climate, even on the rocky slopes of Pahalgam and Sonamarg
A growing market is supported by the use of lavender oil, which is valued at about ₹10,000 per litre and is used in medications, soaps, cosmetics, and perfumes
Through specialised training, nurseries, and support of value-added products, the revolution empowers women and young entrepreneurs
The neat rows of purple blooms draw large crowds of tourists, enhancing Kashmir's natural beauty and rural tourism
Farmers are assisted with processing, branding, and market access by more than 50 distillation facilities and 28 Farmer Producer Organisations
Kashmir's purple revolution is poised to blossom even more, with over 3,000 families growing lavender and a flourishing aroma industry