Jammu, June 16: Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) Jammu & Kashmir unit has demanded that the Central Government and the J&K Administration release a comprehensive White Paper detailing the actual achievements of the much-publicized Purple Revolution (Lavender Mission). The party stated that since the initiative has been showcased as a model for increasing farmers’ incomes and transforming the rural economy, its real impact should now be made public.
State President Manish Sahni said that crores of rupees have been invested in promoting lavender cultivation across Bhaderwah, Doda, Kishtwar and other parts of Jammu division through subsidies, training programmes, distillation units and various support mechanisms. While official reports claim that thousands of farmers have benefited and employment opportunities have been created, the actual outcomes remain unclear.
Sahni demanded that the government disclose the total expenditure incurred under the mission, the number of farmers who adopted lavender cultivation, the extent of income growth achieved, the number of jobs and self-employment opportunities generated, and the overall economic benefits accrued to Jammu & Kashmir.
He emphasized that public funds and taxpayers’ money have been used for the project, making transparency and accountability essential. According to him, citizens have the right to know how effectively the resources allocated to the mission have been utilized and what results have been achieved on the ground.
The Shiv Sena leader further pointed out that many farmers continue to face challenges related to marketing, procurement, fair pricing and sustained demand for lavender-based products. He stated that the success of any agricultural initiative should be measured by tangible improvements in farmers’ incomes, employment generation and local economic development rather than promotional campaigns.
Warning of further action, Sahni said that if the government fails to release a White Paper on the Purple Revolution, Shiv Sena may launch a democratic agitation in support of farmers and unemployed youth seeking transparency and accountability.
Among those present on the occasion were Vikas Bakshi, Sanjeev Kohli and Sanjay Bhatt.
