Dr Jitendra Singh: Himalayas Hold Key to Viksit Bharat 2047

Palampur: The Himalayan economy is emerging as a cornerstone of India’s development story, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh asserted while addressing scientists and farmers at CSIR-IHBT on National Technology Day. He described the region’s biodiversity as an untapped reservoir that will drive the next phase of national growth. The minister credited focused interventions under the Aroma and Floriculture Missions for turning once-marginal lands into thriving centers of aromatic crops and high-value floriculture. These programs, he said, are generating sustainable livelihoods while preserving fragile ecosystems. During his visit, Dr. Singh reviewed ongoing projects that convert Himalayan herbs and flowers into pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals and natural cosmetics. He praised the institute for bridging traditional knowledge with modern biotechnology, creating value chains that benefit local communities directly. Concluding his address, the minister stressed that scientific institutions like CSIR-IHBT are redefining rural development by placing science and entrepreneurship at the heart of policy delivery, ensuring the Himalayas contribute meaningfully to a developed India by 2047.