Overview
Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh addressed the National Technology Day at CSIR‑IHBT, Palampur. He said the Himalayan bioresources will become a major engine of growth as India moves toward the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Key Developments
- Science‑led interventions in the Himalayas are gaining unprecedented momentum under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
- Implementation of the Aroma Mission has made Himachal Pradesh the leading producer of wild marigold oil, generating substantial income for farmers.
- The Floriculture Mission has transformed flower cultivation into a livelihood source; the Tulip Garden in Himachal attracted over 1.5 lakh visitors this year.
- Under the Atmanirbhar Bharat drive, indigenous crops such as Heeng (asafoetida), saffron, cinnamon and monk fruit are being cultivated in high‑altitude zones.
- New fortified nutritional products for POSHAN Abhiyaan and lifestyle‑disorder formulations have been developed.
- Advanced Artificial Intelligence, genomics and drone‑based precision agriculture are being applied for crop improvement, disease prediction and biodiversity monitoring.
Important Facts
- CSIR‑IHBT integrates Himalayan biodiversity, traditional knowledge and commercial innovation across agrotechnology, biotechnology, environmental sciences, nutrition, phytopharmaceuticals and fermentation.
- The Aroma Mission has expanded aromatic crop cultivation to several states and Union Territories and has released improved varieties of lavender and chamomile suited to Himalayan conditions.
- Floriculture activities supported by the institute benefit thousands of farmers in Himachal Pradesh, Ladakh, Uttarakhand, Punjab and Haryana.
- Successful flowering and seed production of Heeng in Lahaul and Spiti opens the possibility of domestic asafoetida cultivation, reducing imports.
- AI‑driven models are being used for disease prediction, while drones assist in precision sowing and real‑time monitoring of crop health.
Exam Relevance
The article links directly to GS3 – Economy as it showcases a new sector (bio‑economy) that can boost GDP, create jobs and reduce import dependence. It also touches upon GS4 – Ethics through sustainable utilization of natural resources and empowerment of marginal farmers. Understanding the role of ministries like the Ministry of Science & Technology, research bodies such as CSIR‑IHBT, and flagship schemes (Aroma Mission, Floriculture Mission) helps answer questions on government initiatives, regional development and self‑reliance.
Way Forward
Dr. Jitendra Singh urged greater collaboration among scientists, farmers, industry and start‑ups to unlock the Himalayas' untapped potential. Policy support, funding for deep‑tech research, and capacity‑building for local communities will be essential to translate bio‑resources into a robust bio‑economy that aligns with the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.