District Development Commissioner (DDC) Kishtwar, Dr. Devansh Yadav today discussed the Agripreneurship promotion plan with a team of Policy Advocacy Research Centre (PARC), a renowned national think-tank.
Led by Rachita Rane, Territory Development Head, and Mohammad Qasim Ghani, State Coordinator for Jammu and Kashmir, the PARC team engaged in discussions to explore strategies for transforming agriculturists in the district into agripreneurs. The meeting focused on identifying gaps, addressing loopholes, and formulating effective measures to promote agricultural entrepreneurship in Kishtwar.
Under the guidance of DDC Kishtwar, GM DIC Mohammad Ashraf; Chief Agriculture Officer, Amjad Hussain Malik; CHO, Sajid Mustafa; LDM, Pankaj Badani; DDM NABARD, Nikhil Sharma; SDAO, Paddar Sahil Gandotra and other officers participated in interactive session with the PARC team.
The meeting also witnessed the presence of members from various Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) of Kishtwar district, along with young local entrepreneurs. Together, they worked towards identifying key sectors that require targeted attention and forward market linkage for FPOs dealing with Kishtwar’s prominent products, including Saffron, Walnuts, Morels (Gucchi), Kala-Zeera, and Solai Honey.
The DDC also sought the expertise of the PARC team for implementing a Solid Waste Management system for recycling and reusing paper waste within the secretariat complex. Furthermore, discussions were held on linking walnut FPOs and producer units with the chocolate industry to ensure the provision of high-quality nuts for the industry.
In addition, the introduction of contract farming of marigold and paprika on a trial basis, coupled with an assured buy-back system, was explored as a potential avenue for agricultural development in the district.
The meeting also delved into the possibility of establishing Common Millet processing units to promote millet usage among the masses.
In response to the progressive vision outlined by DDC Dr. Devansh Yadav, the PARC team committed to arrange more visits within the state/UT to showcase model projects and successful units. These visits aim to inspire and empower local FPOs and their members, providing them with valuable insights and impetus for their own endeavors.
The collaborative efforts of District Development Commissioner Dr. Devansh Yadav, the PARC team, FPOs, and local entrepreneurs exemplify a strong commitment to foster agripreneurship and sustainable development in Kishtwar. By identifying opportunities, addressing challenges, and leveraging expertise, this partnership aims to uplift the agricultural community, bolster the local economy, and enhance the overall well-being of the district.
