NEW DELHI: Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a 'purple revolution' with lavender farming picking up in every district of the Union Territory. Lavender has great potential as a therapeutic and aromatic herb and its farming can contribute greatly to the country's economy. There is also a high demand for the Kashmir Valley's lavender in India and abroad.

The government of Jammu and Kashmir is taking many initiatives to help the farmers across the Union Territory to take up and increase lavender farming. The Department of Agriculture in Jammu and Kashmir is helping farmers increase their market and cultivation on a commercial level. Lavender is also considered to be a low-maintenance crop and blossoms for 15 years.

''Kashmir soil is very fertile and in 2006, the people did not know much about Lavender farming but with time the youngsters are now fully aware of the Purple Revolution which started in Bhaderwah and spread all across the Union Territory. We have a research hub here where we help the farmers with the process. The way the green revolution happened; in a similar way, we are seeing the purple revolution. People have a plot of land, and it suits the barren land. We have given free lavender saplings to people in all the districts in south Kashmir. It has a lot of profit,'' said Kamal Bhat, Research Assistant, at Lavender Farm Sirhama.

The lavender oil sells for over Rs 12,000 ($143.8) per litre. It is used in medicines, incense sticks, soaps, and air fresheners. According to experts, Kashmir Valley has perfect conditions for lavender cultivation.

''In one Kanal there is a production of over one quintal of lavender. The government rate for one litre of oil is 12 thousand Indian rupees. It is used in cosmetics, oils, soaps and also has medicinal value. There is a tea that's made from this as well. The farmers of Kashmir are showing a lot of interest, and the government is also helping by giving free saplings to them. We are fully training the people,'' Bhat said.  

The Government of Jammu and Kashmir is encouraging the unemployed youth of the valley to start lavender farming.