In a significant step towards promoting agricultural development and empowering local farmers, Deputy Commissioner Kathua, Rakesh Minhas today flagged off a group of farmers to Centre of Excellence SKUAST- Jammu for a Capacity Building Programme under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP).
The program aims to equip farmers with essential knowledge, skills and resources to enhance their agricultural practices and contribute to the overall growth of the agricultural sector.
The Capacity Building Programme is a part of the broader Holistic Agriculture Development Programme which is designed to transform the agricultural landscape by introducing sustainable and modern farming techniques, improving crop yield, and fostering economic prosperity in rural communities. By providing farmers with access to training, information, and resources, the program seeks to bridge the gap between traditional farming methods and contemporary agricultural practices.
DC while addressing the gathering, emphasized the importance of such initiatives in enhancing the livelihoods of farmers and ensuring food security. He said that during this programme, the 25 progressive farmers from Kathua will undergo training at the Centre of Excellence SKUAST in Jammu. He highlighted the need for continuous learning and adaptation to new agricultural technologies in order to meet the challenges of a changing world.
The farmers will also visit Mega Fruit Plant Nursery Chakrohi in R. S Pura wherein they will get themselves acquainted with State of the art techniques. He also said that these programmes are in line with the PM’s vision of doubling the farmer’s income.
The Chief Horticulture Officer Kathua, while sharing the details, disclosed that the initiative underscores the commitment of the administration to rural development and the well-being of the farming community. He said that the main objective of this tour under HADP is to make farmers aware about different components like nursery development, orchard management, establishment of monther block and root stock bank, hi-tech cultivation and drip irrigation etc. “By focusing on holistic agricultural development, the district aims to create a self-sufficient and resilient agricultural sector that can withstand the tests of time and contribute significantly to the region’s prosperity”, he added.
