Dehradun: Uttarakhand is set to become a hub for aromatic crops with the launch of the Aroma Revolution Policy 2026‑36. The state will develop seven aroma valleys in different districts, creating new opportunities for farmers and boosting the rural economy.
In the first phase, the valleys identified include the Timur Valley in Pithoragarh, the Damask Rose Valley in Chamoli and Almora, the Mint Valley in Udham Singh Nagar, the Cinnamon Valley in Champawat and Nainital, and the Lemongrass and Mint Valley in Haridwar and Pauri. These valleys will focus on large‑scale cultivation of aromatic plants.
Policy provides support for nursery development, subsidies for cultivation
The policy provides support for nursery development, subsidies for cultivation, training and capacity building, crop insurance, packaging, and branding. Officials said the initiative will cover about 23,000 hectares of land and connect nearly one lakh farmers with aromatic crop cultivation.
The target is to increase the business of aromatic crops from Rs 100 crore to Rs 1200 crore in the next ten years. This growth is expected to bring unprecedented improvement in farmers’ income and contribute significantly to the state’s economy.
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed
During the program at the Aromatic Plants Centre (CAP) in Dehradun, new infrastructure was announced to support the initiative. A satellite center in Bhauwala was inaugurated, and foundation stones were laid for a laboratory and five satellite centers in Parsari (Chamoli), Raithal (Uttarkashi), Bhaisodi (Almora), Khatera (Champawat), and Vishad (Pithoragarh).
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between CAP and Dabur India Limited to cooperate in research, expansion, human resource development, and marketing. This partnership is expected to strengthen the aromatic crop sector and open new business opportunities.
Aroma Park is being developed at Kashipur
An Aroma Park is also being developed in Kashipur over 40 acres at a cost of Rs 300 crore to encourage aroma and perfumery industries. Efforts are underway to give international recognition to essential oils through the ‘House of Himalayas’ brand.
In addition, tea gardens in Dhauladevi, Munsyari, and Betalghat are being converted into organic tea gardens, further promoting sustainable agriculture and eco‑friendly practices.
It will create new employment opportunities in cultivation
Officials believe that the Aroma Revolution Policy will not only boost farmer incomes but also create new employment opportunities in cultivation, processing, packaging, and marketing. With the development of aroma valleys and supporting infrastructure, Uttarakhand is positioning itself as a leader in aromatic crops and natural products.