The Northeast region’s rich biodiversity and agricultural potential can drive India’s economic ascent, said Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, while addressing the CSIR–NEIST Aroma and Floriculture Mission Meet in Mizoram.
Dr. Singh emphasized that science-driven interventions are transforming rural livelihoods and fostering sustainable growth. Highlighting the success of the ‘Purple Revolution’ in Jammu & Kashmir, he urged farmers and entrepreneurs in the Northeast to replicate this model by cultivating high-value aromatic crops such as lavender, citronella, lemongrass, and patchouli.
“The Northeast can emerge as a hub for India’s aroma and floriculture industries by blending modern scientific tools with traditional farming practices,” he said. He added that these initiatives enhance farm incomes, empower women, engage youth, and promote rural industrialization, aligning with the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat @2047’.
The programme, organized by CSIR–NEIST, included distribution of quality planting materials of aromatic and floricultural crops and bee boxes to participating farmers. Dr. Virendra M. Tiwari, Director, CSIR–NEIST, highlighted the institute’s efforts in boosting cultivation and processing of high-value crops across the Northeast.
Senior officials from the Mizoram government, State Medicinal Plant Board, and KVK Mamit attended the event. CSIR–NEIST will continue its outreach with a Training-cum-Awareness Programme on aromatic and floriculture crop cultivation for farmers and entrepreneurs on 30th October 2025.
