Jammu & Kashmir is set to receive a major boost in its agricultural sector. The Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, announced the establishment of a Rs 150 crore Clean Plant Center. This initiative is part of the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) scheme. The aim is to reduce reliance on imported planting material that is often virus-prone. This will enhance the productivity of horticulture in the region.
During a convocation ceremony at the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST-K), Chouhan described Kashmir as the ‘crown jewel of India’. He encouraged people from all over the country to visit Kashmir without fear. His visit comes at a time when the Jammu & Kashmir administration is actively working to revive tourism following recent security incidents.
Chouhan praised the local culture and the hospitality of the people. He shared his positive experiences while interacting with locals in Srinagar, stating that he felt a deep connection with the land and its people. He emphasized the importance of agriculture, declaring it the backbone of both the local and national economy.
The Clean Plant Center is expected to provide disease-free planting materials for various crops including apples, almonds, walnuts, and berries. This will significantly benefit local farmers, who currently depend on imported materials that may carry diseases. The goal is to improve the quality of crops produced in the region and make Jammu & Kashmir a global hub for horticulture.
Chouhan highlighted the success of the Holistic Agricultural Development Program (HADP) being implemented in the area. He noted that in apple orchards, per-hectare yield has increased from 10 tonnes to 60 tonnes, marking a six-fold rise. He expressed his vision to see Kashmiri apples exported worldwide, reducing the need for imports.
At the convocation, Chouhan also urged students to innovate in the agricultural sector. He spoke about the need for startups and advanced technologies that could revolutionize farming practices. He encouraged graduates to use their learning not just for personal gain but for the benefit of society.
The ceremony saw nearly 5,250 students receiving degrees, with 150 gold medals awarded for academic excellence. Chouhan reminded the graduates that their education is a foundation for contributing positively to society. He believes that the knowledge they gained should be shared to help others.
In conclusion, the establishment of the Clean Plant Center is a significant step towards enhancing agriculture in Jammu & Kashmir. With government support and local innovation, the region can look forward to a bright future in horticulture. This initiative is not only about increasing productivity but also about ensuring the health and sustainability of crops, benefiting both farmers and consumers alike.