JR SHEIKH TARIQ
Mendhar Poonch, March 24 : In a landmark initiative aimed at fostering sustainable agriculture and economic prosperity, the Indian Institute of Integrated Medicine (IIIM) Jammu, in collaboration with local sericulturists and esteemed artisan Dr. Rubia Bukhari, organized an enlightening Awareness Programme on Lavender Cultivation and quality planting material of lavender was distributed among the farmers Mendhar Poonch.
The event witnessed an overwhelming response from the community, with over 130-150 enthusiastic farmers gracing the occasion. Among the attendees were passionate individuals eager to embark on the journey of lavender cultivation, a venture poised to revolutionize the agricultural landscape of the region. More then 1.5 lakh quality planting material of lavender were distributed among the farmers by Dr. Siya Ram Meena, Senior Technical Officer at IIIM Jammu , Dr Rubia Bukhari , Dr Wajid Shah , Mr Akash Verma Technical Assistant IIIM Jammu and Mr Vinod Phogat Project Assistant IIIM Jammu
Dr. Zabeer Ahmad, Director of the Indian Institute of Integrated Medicine (IIIM) Jammu, and Suphla Gupta, Senior Principal Scientist and Nodal Aroma Mission, extended their heartfelt congratulations to the people of Poonch for their resounding enthusiasm and positive response towards cultivating quality planting material of lavender.
Dr. Zabeer Ahmad, in his message, expressed profound delight at witnessing the overwhelming support and participation from the community of Poonch. He emphasized the significance of fostering local agricultural initiatives, underscoring the transformative potential of lavender cultivation in enhancing livelihoods and promoting sustainable development in the region.
Led by Dr. Siya Ram Meena, Senior Technical Officer at IIIM Jammu, the programme commenced with insightful discussions on lavender cultivation techniques, enlightening the attendees about the nuances of nurturing this fragrant crop.
Drawing from years of experience and research, Dr. Meena provided invaluable insights into soil preparation, irrigation methods, pest management, and harvesting techniques tailored to the unique climatic conditions of Mendhar Poonch. His comprehensive discourse not only empowered the farmers with practical know-how but also instilled in them a sense of confidence and enthusiasm to embark on their lavender cultivation journey.
Dr. Rubia Bukhari, a renowned sericulturist and the visionary founder of the Dr. Rubia Bukhari Cocoon Artistry Initiative, expressed gratitude to IIIM Jammu for choosing Poonch as the epicenter of the lavender cultivation initiative. She emphasized the potential for success in lavender cultivation in a region already famed for its expertise in silkworm cultivation, foreseeing Poonch as the future hub of the purple revolution, following in the footsteps of Bhaderwah.
Dr Rubia thanked Dr. Rajinder Bhanwaria Senior Scientist and Dr. V P Rahul (IIIM) Jammu who ensured safe transportation of quality planting material of lavender from Jammu to Poonch is such short span of time
Dr. Wajid Shah, echoing sentiments of optimism, hailed the event as the dawn of a new era for Poonch district. He extended heartfelt appreciation to all the farmers for their participation, foreseeing a prosperous future for the region through lavender cultivation. Special thanks were extended to Mr. Touqeer Bagban, Managing Director of JK Aroma, for his unwavering support and cooperation throughout the initiative.
Mr Akash Verma Technical Assistant IIIM Jammu and Mr Vinod Phogat Project Assistant IIIM Jammu also spoke on the occasion.
The farmers reciprocated with gratitude, lauding IIIM Jammu and Dr. Rubia Bukhari for spearheading such a transformative initiative in the border district of Poonch. Their collective enthusiasm and commitment bode well for the success of lavender cultivation, marking a historic milestone in the region’s agricultural journey.
As the event concluded, the air was imbued with a sense of optimism and determination, setting the stage for a flourishing future where the soothing hues and scents of lavender adorn the landscape of Mendhar Poonch.
