Director, CSIR–Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (IIIM) Jammu, Dr. Zabeer Ahmed today called on Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo and apprised him of the institute’s ongoing research and development initiatives, along with its role in advancing the region’s scientific and bio economic landscape.

During the interaction the Director provided a comprehensive overview of CSIR–IIIM’s institutional activities, highlighting its impactful work in the domestication and captive cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants across Jammu & Kashmir.

He outlined the progress made under CSIR’s flagship programmes, including Aroma Mission, Floriculture initiatives and region-specific Smart Agriculture Missions, which aim to integrate scientific interventions with agricultural practices to enhance productivity, sustainability and farmer livelihoods.

The Director further apprised the Chief Secretary of the institute’s contribution in drug discovery and research programmes, underlining how these efforts are fostering innovation, strengthening the regional research ecosystem and accelerating the translation of laboratory discoveries into commercially viable and socially relevant applications.

The Chief Secretary acknowledged CSIR–IIIM’s contribution towards high-quality research, innovation and public-oriented scientific outreach. He encouraged the institute for continuing its efforts in aligning advanced research with regional development needs and stressed the importance of its role in supporting Jammu & Kashmir’s emerging scientific and bio economic framework.

The Chief Secretary further underscored the need for further collaboration between the institute and the UT administration to leverage scientific expertise for strengthening agriculture, pharmaceuticals and allied sectors, thereby ensuring inclusive growth and enhanced income opportunities for local communities.