The Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) took center stage during the Republic Day Parade 2024 with a captivating tableau highlighting the transformative ‘Purple Revolution’ brought about by lavender cultivation in Jammu & Kashmir. CSIR’s impactful scientific interventions have not only spurred the remarkable growth of lavender cultivation but have also paved the way for the development of lavender-based products, fostering agri-start-ups in the region.
At the heart of the tableau was the unveiling of India’s first women-friendly compact electric tractor, PRIMA ET11, a pioneering creation by CSIR. Aligned with the Viksit Bharat theme of the Republic Day Parade, the visually enchanting tableau aimed to showcase the success of lavender cultivation, the empowerment of women farmers, and the scientific advancements made by CSIR.
CSIR played a pivotal role in the ‘Purple Revolution’ by developing an elite variety of lavender specifically suited for the temperate regions of Jammu & Kashmir. The organization distributed free lavender saplings and provided end-to-end agro-technologies to farmers. Additionally, distillation units for essential oil extraction were installed in various regions, contributing to the success and widespread adoption of lavender cultivation in the area.
The front section of the tableau portrayed an expansive lavender cultivation landscape, featuring an empowered 21st-century woman farmer from J&K, symbolizing the changing dynamics of agriculture in the region. The middle section highlighted CSIR’s scientific interventions, showcasing the process of providing quality planting materials to farmers and featuring the diligent work of farmers on lavender farmlands.
Under the theme of agro-mechanical technology, the spotlight was on CSIR’s groundbreaking creation – the PRIMA ET11 compact electric tractor. This innovative tractor, designed with a focus on women-friendly features, represents a significant leap forward in agricultural technology.
The tableau also shed light on agro-technical developments, featuring a distillation unit for extracting essential oil from lavender flowers, underscoring CSIR’s commitment to value addition and product diversification in lavender-based industries.
The rear section of the tableau delved into the concept of agri-start-ups in India and the export of lavender-based products, including perfumes, oil, and incense sticks. The tableau celebrated the achievements of women in the field of science, emphasizing the Government’s initiatives aimed at enhancing farmers’ incomes, promoting Naari Shakti (women empowerment), fostering agri-start-ups, and expanding global business opportunities.
In essence, CSIR’s Republic Day tableau served as a vivid representation of the ‘Purple Revolution,’ showcasing the convergence of scientific innovation, women empowerment, and agricultural advancements that are shaping a vibrant and sustainable future for Jammu & Kashmir.