Nagaland is preparing to expand lavender cultivation and science-based rural entrepreneurship with support from the Centre, following a high-level meeting between the State leadership and Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh.
The discussions focused on developing a long-term strategy to promote lavender cultivation, strengthen scientific research, and create sustainable livelihood opportunities by leveraging Nagaland’s biodiversity, academic institutions, and natural resources.
Nagaland’s Minister for Tourism and Higher Education, Shri Temjen Imna Along, accompanied by Advisor for Science and Technology Shri Küzholüzo (Azo) Nienu, met Dr. Singh to explore collaboration under various programmes of the Ministry of Science and Technology. The meeting highlighted the potential of science and innovation in driving economic development, particularly in agriculture and rural entrepreneurship.
A key agenda item was the expansion of lavender cultivation under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) Aroma Mission. Nagaland began its journey with lavender farming in 2022 through a startup-led pilot project in Zunheboto district, inspired by the successful “Purple Revolution” initiated in Bhaderwah, Jammu and Kashmir.
Dr. Singh praised the State’s early efforts and said the pilot project has demonstrated the possibilities of adapting aromatic crop cultivation to Nagaland’s unique agro-climatic conditions. He noted that with scientific guidance, quality planting material, technology support, and strong market linkages, lavender cultivation could emerge as a sustainable source of income for farmers and rural entrepreneurs.
Drawing from the experience of the Aroma Mission in Jammu and Kashmir, the Union Minister said the initiative has significantly enhanced farmers’ incomes while creating employment opportunities through value addition and entrepreneurship. He proposed that scientists, agricultural experts, and senior officials from Nagaland undertake an exposure visit to Jammu and Kashmir to study the successful implementation of the programme and identify practices that can be replicated in the State.
Dr. Singh also recommended conducting a scientific assessment to identify suitable regions across Nagaland for cultivating lavender and other high-value aromatic crops. He stressed that a region-specific strategy would ensure better productivity and long-term sustainability while enabling farmers to diversify into profitable agricultural ventures.
Beyond agriculture, the meeting also focused on strengthening Nagaland’s scientific and innovation ecosystem. Dr. Singh discussed extending flagship programmes of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) to universities, colleges, and research institutions in the State through financial assistance, mentorship, and infrastructure support.
He suggested that senior DST officials engage with the State Government and academic institutions to identify priority sectors for collaboration and prepare a roadmap for establishing scientific infrastructure aligned with Nagaland’s development goals. The proposed initiatives aim to enhance research capabilities while encouraging innovation at the institutional level.
The Union Minister further advocated stronger collaboration between the Government of Nagaland and leading scientific institutions under the Department of Science and Technology and CSIR. According to him, closer partnerships would facilitate technology transfer, promote research-based innovation, and strengthen the capacity of young scientists, startups, and entrepreneurs.
The discussions also explored opportunities in biotechnology, agri-technologies, bio-resource utilisation, and other emerging sectors where Nagaland possesses significant natural advantages. Dr. Singh observed that science and technology have the potential to unlock new avenues of economic growth in the North Eastern Region by developing locally relevant and sustainable solutions that directly benefit farmers and rural communities.
Shri Temjen Imna Along expressed appreciation for the Centre’s continued support towards strengthening the science and technology ecosystem in the North East. He reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to working closely with the Ministry to implement collaborative projects that promote innovation, research, and entrepreneurship.
Advisor Shri Küzholüzo (Azo) Nienu also outlined Nagaland’s vision for expanding scientific research and creating technology-driven development opportunities across the State.
The meeting concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to deepening Centre-State cooperation. The proposed roadmap aims to translate scientific research into practical developmental outcomes through farmer-centric technologies, stronger institutional partnerships, improved research infrastructure, and sustainable livelihood generation, positioning science and innovation as key drivers of Nagaland’s future growth.
Author: Shivam
Shivam Dwivedi is a senior journalist with extensive experience in research-driven journalism, policy communication, and multi-platform storytelling. His areas of interest include international relations, defence, science & technology, education, urban development, agriculture, spirituality, and environmental sustainability. His work focuses on in-depth analysis, public discourse, and impactful narratives across governance and development sectors, with a strong commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Contact: [email protected]
