Drought-prone Wanaparthy inTelanganaand terror-hit Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir are witnessing an aroma revolution. Eight labs, including Hyderabad-based Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CIMAP) regional node, are part of the aroma mission.Lavender is being cultivated in Kashmir, while farmers grow lemongrass in thousands of hectares in Telangana.

CIMAP-Hyderabad scientists said they have been cultivating lemongrass as the agro-Climate in the Deccan region suits it. CIMAP-Hyderabad has been distributing lemongrass slips (Krishna variety) to the farmers of tribal hamlets like Chekuruchettu tanda in Wanaparthy district.

Currently, India imports 182 tonnes of lemongrass oil annually. Initially, the target of aroma mission was only 5,500 hectares, but now it has been increased multifold due to good response.