Deputy Commissioner Doda Krishan Lal along with Director CSIR-IIIM Jammu Dr. Zabeer Ahmed today chaired a meeting to review arrangements for 2-day Lavender Festival 2026 scheduled to be held on June 6 and 7 at Government Degree College (GDC) Bhaderwah.
Experts, scientists, aroma industry professionals and stakeholders from across the country would participate in the festival and share valuable knowledge with farmers and visitors. The event being held on the College Campus would also witness active participation from students.
Bhaderwah has been hosting the event since 2022 for it being the birthplace of the Lavender Mission in Jammu and Kashmir.
The meeting was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner Doda, Additional Deputy Commissioner Bhaderwah, ASP Headquarters, Programme Officer ICDS, Superintending Engineer Jal Shakti Department, Principal GDC Bhaderwah, Divisional Forest Officer Bhaderwah, Chief Planning Officer, Chief Executive Officer Bhaderwah Development Authority, Joint Director Education, district officers and representatives from line departments.
Reviewing the preparations, the Deputy Commissioner directed all concerned departments to ensure the timely completion of arrangements and work in close coordination for the successful conduct of the festival. Agriculture, Horticulture, Floriculture and other allied departments were asked to actively participate in the festival and set up stalls showcasing respective schemes, innovations and services.
The meeting finalized arrangements related to sanitation, water and power supply, medical facilities, transportation, security and safety measures. The DC directed the stakeholder departments to formulate meticulous plans to complete the arrangements well in advance. The ADC Bhaderwah was designated as the Nodal Officer for overall coordination and management of the festival.
The Director CSIR-IIIM Jammu gave a detailed PowerPoint presentation, highlighting the potential of lavender cultivation in transforming the rural economy of the district.
He noted that the lavender farmers of Doda have played a vital role in promoting aromatic crop cultivation and strengthening rural livelihoods. He expressed hope that the lavender sector would continue to boost the district’s economy and create new opportunities for entrepreneurship and employment.
A short documentary highlighting the success stories and achievements of previous Lavender Festivals was also screened.