Jammu, Jan 29 (KNN) Union Minister of State, Science & Technology, Dr Jitendra Singh, highlighted Jammu and Kashmir's rising status as an agricultural start-up hub, on Sunday.

Emphasising the region's pivotal role in the ‘Purple Revolution’, the Republic Day tableau showcased Bhaderwah's lavender farms, serving as a testament to J&K's prominence.

The agricultural success was subsequently adopted in Himalayan states like Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Nagaland.

Dr Singh underscored that the foundation of this agri-startup hub lies in the scenic town of Bhaderwah in district Doda, where lavender cultivation has gained momentum.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi previously shared this success story on his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ broadcast, commending the Aroma Mission initiated by the Ministry of Science & Technology, Government of India.

The lavender cultivation initiative in Bhaderwah is hailed as an alternative economic source, offering over 3,000 successful lavender entrepreneurs.

Dr Singh stressed the significance of this venture, aligning with PM Modi's vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047, contributing to India's economic growth.

Highlighting the impact on employment, Dr Singh informed that more than three thousand youth in J&K are actively involved, earning substantial incomes.

He urged the youth to embrace the agricultural start-up ecosystem, emphasising their role in achieving economic value addition and realising India's ambition to become the top global economy in the next 25 years.

(KNN Bureau)