How growing Damask roses is changing lives of Kumaon farmers in Uttarakhand

The farmers of the Kumaon hills in Uttarakhand have started the cultivation of rose, particularly the prized Damask variety, known for their strong fragrance and rich oil content. Initially, it began as a small trial and has now blossomed into a large movement, spreading across Almora, Bageshwar, and Pithoragarh, with more than 500 farmers now cultivating these flowers.

The Damask rose, scientifically known as Rosa damascena, is a special variety that blooms just once a year. These roses are primarily found in the eastern Mediterranean region, specifically in countries like Bulgaria, Turkey, France, Italy, Morocco, Russia, and India. They are believed to have originated in South Anatolia, within the eastern Mediterranean region.

They are highly valued for making perfumes, rose water, and essential oils. The cool climate of Kumaon favours the growing of these flowers, and farmers have found them to be not only profitable but also useful for keeping monkeys and other wild animals away from their farms, which has long been a major challenge in the region, TOI reported.

In Almora’s Takula region, nearly 300 farmers have taken up Damask rose farming. The Centre for Aromatic Plants (CAP) has also extended the project to Garur block in Bageshwar, where 50 farmers in Amoli village are now growing roses on about two hectares of land. CAP supports these farmers with training, technical help, and access to buyers.