Dr Jitendra Singh backs purple revolution at lavender fest in Jammu's Bhaderwah

India Today

03-06-2025

The Union Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office, Dr Jitendra Singh, on Monday visited the Bhaderwah valley in Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir and participated in the annual Lavender Festival, symbolising the government's push for the 'Purple Revolution' in the region.The event reflects a growing emphasis on agri-based innovation, local entrepreneurship, and economic upliftment in the Union Territory.advertisementAddressing local farmers and security personnel amid blooming lavender fields, Dr Singh praised the region's transformation under the Purple Revolution, an initiative under the Aroma Mission that promotes high-value aromatic crops like lavender to boost rural incomes. Bhaderwah, once impacted by conflict, has now emerged as India's lavender capital.
'This is the new story of Jammu and Kashmir where fields bloom with lavender and opportunities,' he said, lauding efforts by local farmers and CSIR for spearheading the change.Dr Singh highlighted the Modi government's efforts to transform the economy of Jammu and Kashmir through technology, agriculture, and national security measures. He linked the region's development drive to the recent Operation Sindoor, calling it a milestone in India's technological and defence capabilities.'The world has seen the might of indigenous technology during Operation Sindoor. Our defence capability today is powered not just by weapons, but by innovation,' he said. advertisementHe also said that the operation displayed India's ability to conduct precision strikes without foreign dependence, boosting national morale.'This is New India – secure at its borders and strong in its economy,' he emphasised.Reaffirming India's stance on PoK, Dr Singh invoked the 1994 Parliamentary resolution, stating, 'Taking back PoK is a matter of national consensus, not politics.'He stated that the government remains committed to this goal as part of its broader vision for national integrity and sovereignty.The Lavender Festival, held annually to promote aromatic farming, marks a vital part of the 'Purple Revolution' a central initiative under the Aroma Mission to boost farmer incomes through high-value crops. Bhaderwah has emerged as the lavender capital of India, turning many former conflict-ridden villages into hubs of agro-based prosperity.The visit and the festival reflect a broader strategy to position Jammu and Kashmir as both a security stronghold and a model of grassroots economic development, signalling New Delhi's evolving approach to the region.Must Watch