Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh hailed the “Purple Revolution” as a symbol of economic transformation and resilience in Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking at the annual Lavender Festival in Bhaderwah, the Minister emphasised the region’s evolving identity—from once troubled terrain to a thriving hub of innovation, agriculture, and tourism.
"This Lavender Festival is a beautiful opportunity for the people of Jammu and Kashmir to connect with the rest of the country. It symbolises peace, progress, and the promise of a brighter, more integrated future," said Dr. Singh in an exclusive interview with NDTV.
The Lavender Festival comes just weeks after the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, marking a significant moment of healing and normalcy for the region.
Dr. Singh credited the "Aroma Mission"—launched under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership—for the economic shift. He described the initiative as a bold and innovative move from traditional agriculture to lavender-based entrepreneurship.
“Bhaderwah in Jammu and Kashmir has not only earned a national identity but also plays a significant role in India’s economic growth. Much of the credit goes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” said the Minister, noting that the Prime Minister even highlighted the initiative in his Mann Ki Baat program.
He added that startups inspired by the project have now emerged not only in J&K but also in Himalayan states like Manipur, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh.
Addressing the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, Dr. Singh praised the local community’s spirit, stating, “There is tremendous enthusiasm among the people—unshaken and unaffected by what happened during those four days.”
Improved connectivity has played a vital role in this transformation, the Minister said. Travel time from Jammu to Bhaderwah has been reduced to just over three hours, leading to a surge in tourism and investments. “What used to be a sleepy town is now witnessing the arrival of five-star hotels. Investors see potential here.”
The Minister also revealed previously undisclosed details about India’s use of indigenous technology during Operation Sindoor. “Jammu city was targeted by at least 300 drones within a single hour. Yet, not a single one managed to cause harm, thanks to our highly efficient Akash system and anti-drone technologies,” he said.
He emphasised that such advancements are part of a broader vision for a Viksit Bharat@2047, with the Ministry of Science & Technology playing a key role in national development and security—particularly in sensitive regions like Jammu & Kashmir and the Northeast.
Dr. Singh also highlighted the strategic use of ISRO’s satellite technology in national defense, adding that India’s imaging capabilities have garnered international recognition. “Around the end of the first week of June, we have a mission to the International Space Station with our own astronaut, Group Captain Shukla, onboard,” he revealed. The mission will focus on biotech experiments in space, including agricultural research.
“This is not only a symbol of rising aspirations and prosperity but also a reflection of the region’s normalcy and its breathtaking natural beauty,” he said.