Northeast region, J&K priority of PM: Dr Jitendra

New Delhi, Jan 27: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh said that both the Northeast region as well as Jammu & Kashmir have been on the priority of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Aroma Mission launched by the government headed by him in J&K is now picking up in the Northeast.
Both these regions have abundant natural resources which have in the past remained unexplored but can be a vital value addition to India’s economy, said the Minister.
Speaking virtually at the inauguration of the Incubation & Innovation Complex (IICON) of CSIR-NEIST, Dr Jitendra Singh underscored the transformative potential of the Aroma Mission at the north East Aroma Conclave 2025, highlighting how the initiative integrates multiple flagship schemes of the Government to empower the region.
The Minister called It a model of the “whole-of-government” approach, aligning programs such as StartUp India, MSME support, agricultural advancements, and rural development.
“This single initiative represents the spirit of convergence that the Modi Government has championed,” Dr. Jitendra Singh said. He noted that the Aroma Mission is not just an agricultural or scientific initiative but a platform fostering startups, self-help groups, and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) while simultaneously contributing to farmers’ income and promoting employment. The event witnessed the distribution of agreements to 25 startups, entrepreneurs, NGOs, and self-help groups, empowering them to utilize the advanced facilities at IICON and contribute to the region’s economic growth and innovation.
Dr. Jitendra Singh further elaborated that this mission has drawn strength from the Prime Minister’s vision of inclusive development of regions like the North East and Jammu & Kashmir. “Through the Aroma Mission, we are addressing the untapped potential of these biodiverse regions, enabling them to contribute significantly to India’s economy,” he said.
The mission’s outcomes have been promising. Over 27 facilities established at CSIR-NEIST are being utilized by entrepreneurs, self-help groups, and startups. These efforts are creating new opportunities for employment and innovation in sectors such as essential oils and medicinal plants, with North East India poised to replicate the success of lavender cultivation in Jammu & Kashmir.
Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted how the initiative ties into broader priorities such as doubling farmers’ income and fostering women’s empowerment. He praised the Rural Women Technology Park developed under the mission, describing it as a template for replication in other parts of the country.
The Minister also pointed to the broader vision of transforming the North East into a hub of connectivity, innovation, and collaboration. “From being regions with minimal connectivity, states in the North East now boast robust rail, air, and water networks, opening avenues for industrial partnerships and exports,” he remarked.
Dr. Jitendra Singh expressed confidence that the Aroma Mission will not only bring prosperity to the North East but also bolster India’s bio-economy and biotechnology sectors. With the recently launched Bio-E3 policy and new collaborations in place, the region is set to emerge as a key contributor to India’s growth story, paving the way for achieving the vision of India@2047.
The North East Aroma Conclave 2025, with its blend of innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development, stands as a beacon of how integrated government initiatives can drive regional progress and national aspirations.
Dr. Jitendra Singh underscored the significance of IICON, calling it a “one-stop solution” for entrepreneurs, farmers, and artisans. The state-of-the-art facility offers 27 advanced technologies to support startups and MSMEs, fostering innovation and skill development while reducing business risks. Selected entrepreneurs and self-help groups will have access to the incubation facilities for up to two years, allowing them to refine production and marketing strategies before launching their independent ventures.
The Minister commended the CSIR-North East Institute of Science and Technology (CSIR-NEIST) for translating research into impactful solutions for rural communities. Through the Aroma Mission and Floriculture Mission, CSIR-NEIST has successfully introduced aromatic crops like citronella, lemongrass, patchouli, and chamomile across more than 5,000 hectares in the North East, benefiting over 10,000 farmers. Additionally, the institute has established 39 essential oil distillation units and plans to distribute 1 lakh agarwood saplings in the coming year, paving the way for the region to emerge as a major player in the aromatic plants industry.
Dr. Jitendra Singh concluded by stressing the importance of leveraging the North East’s natural and human resources to achieve the vision of India@2047. With initiatives like the Aroma Mission, IICON, and the Government’s Act East Policy, the North East is poised to become a gateway for trade and innovation, fostering regional prosperity and strengthening India’s position on the global stage.