The Purple Revolution refers to the widespread cultivation of lavender in Jammu and Kashmir. It aims to improve farmers’ incomes and promote agri-tourism in the region.
Kashmir’s temperate climate, with cool winters and well-drained soil, is ideal for growing lavender. These conditions allow for high productivity and rich essential oil content.
Lavender farming has expanded in districts like Anantnag, Pulwama, Budgam, Ganderbal, and Kupwara, where farmers have shifted from traditional crops to lavender with government support.
Lavender is used in cosmetics, soaps, perfumes, mosquito repellents, and aromatherapy. Its essential oil has high commercial value in both national and international markets.
The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR–IIIM), Jammu, plays a key role in researching and promoting lavender farming.
Farmers get better returns per hectare, lower input costs, and steady market demand. It also requires less irrigation and is suitable for unutilised or barren land.
Lavender plants start flowering just 100–120 days after planting. They continue to yield flowers for up to 10 years with proper care.
Lavender fields attract tourists, photographers, and eco-tourism enthusiasts. The scenic purple fields are becoming seasonal tourist destinations in Kashmir.
Yes, lavender farming is a low-input, eco-friendly activity. It reduces pressure on water resources and avoids the overuse of chemical fertilisers and pesticides.
Lavender cultivation is promoted under the Aroma Mission, a central government scheme that provides technical guidance, planting material, and buy-back arrangements.
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