Union Minister for Agriculture, Farmers’ Welfare, and Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, has announced a significant investment in agriculture for Jammu & Kashmir. During a recent press conference in Srinagar, he introduced a ₹150-crore Clean Plant Centre under the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH). This new centre aims to provide disease-free planting material for various crops, including apples, walnuts, almonds, and berries.
The establishment of the Clean Plant Centre is a crucial step for farmers. Many farmers have faced challenges with imported plant materials that often turn out to be infected. The new centre will help ensure that farmers have access to high-quality, pathogen-free plants. Alongside this, private nurseries will receive support to maintain the quality of plants available to farmers.
Chouhan also highlighted the importance of saffron for Kashmir’s identity. To boost saffron production, the government will establish a tissue culture lab and nursery. This initiative will be part of a revised National Saffron Mission tailored to local conditions. An expert team will be formed to enhance saffron productivity.
In addition to these initiatives, the minister addressed concerns about undocumented land ownership. Farmers without official land documents will be eligible for benefits under the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme. This will ensure that more farmers receive financial support.
The government has also announced the upcoming launch of the Restructured Weather-Based Crop Insurance Scheme (RWBCIS). This scheme will cover horticultural crops under the PM Fasal Bima Yojana, providing farmers with much-needed security against weather-related losses.
To further support farmers, Quality Control Labs will be set up in Kathua, Baramulla, and Anantnag. These labs will focus on improving soil health and regulating fertilizers. Addressing irrigation gaps between canals and fields will also be a priority under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY).
The minister praised the J&K government’s efforts in rural development, particularly the implementation of PMGSY Phase-IV. A total of ₹4,200 crore has been sanctioned for road connectivity in the region. Chouhan noted that 93% of houses under the PM Awas Yojana have been completed, and housing will be provided for all verified applicants.
On the employment front, the government is promoting Self Help Groups under the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM). Many women have become Lakhpati Didis, with some even reaching millionaire status. The government aims to empower more women and improve their annual income through these groups.
Chouhan emphasized the government’s commitment to job creation through MGNREGA and youth training programs. Efforts will also be made to ensure that all eligible farmers are connected to the Kisan Credit Card scheme.
The minister concluded by reiterating the central government’s dedication to working closely with the J&K government. He expressed optimism about the future of agriculture in the region and the commitment to ensuring that no farmer is left behind. This comprehensive package of initiatives aims to strengthen the agricultural sector, improve farmer welfare, and contribute to the overall development of Jammu & Kashmir.