Uttarakhand cabinet approves Fragrance Revolution Policy

The Uttarakhand Cabinet on Tuesday approved the State Fragrance Revolution Policy 2026-2036 to promote the cultivation of aromatic crops across the state.

The policy aims to enhance farmers’ income, boost agro-based industries, and position Uttarakhand as a hub for high-value aromatic plants such as lavender, rosemary, mint, and lemongrass. In its first phase, it targets 22,750 hectares of land, benefiting 91,000 farmers. Under the scheme, farmers will receive subsidies covering 80 per cent of cultivation costs for up to one hectare and 50 per cent for larger areas. The initiative also provides marketing support, value addition, and skill development to ensure sustainable growth.

Following the Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, Director General of Information Banshidhar Tiwari highlighted these objectives and said the government is committed to supporting farmers in adopting aromatic crops.

In another decision, the Cabinet approved the creation of eight posts to establish studios for the smooth operation of five free educational TV channels broadcast by the State Council of Educational Research and Training under the PM e-Vidya programme.

Additionally, the Cabinet sanctioned Rs 27.85 crore for the construction of 1,872 affordable houses by the District Development Authority at Bagwala in Rudrapur, Udham Singh Nagar district. The project, under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, will benefit low-income families.