Kulgam, Oct 11 (JKNS): Minister for Health, Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo on Saturday said that institutions like SKUAST-K have a vital role to play in promoting research and innovation in the agriculture sector.
As per news agency JKNS, Itoo stressed on greater collaboration between scientific institutions and the farming community to ensure sustainable agricultural growth. She said much more needs to be done in the agriculture and allied sectors to enhance productivity and profitability. The Minister urged departments concerned to provide continuous handholding to farmers and equip them with the latest technologies and scientific know-how for crop improvement.
Highlighting challenges faced by farmers, she noted that adverse weather conditions and frequent highway closures have caused significant losses to the farming community. She emphasised that agricultural scientists should take a proactive role in guiding farmers towards high-yield and climate-resilient crops.
Lauding the contribution of Sher-i-Kashmir Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah towards upliftment of farmers, Itoo said that his historic land reforms are recognised worldwide for improving the condition of the farming community.
Speaking on government initiatives in the agriculture sector, the Minister said that most services are now available online and it is essential to ensure proper facilitation so farmers can avail government schemes and programmes. She also highlighted welfare measures for the poor and underprivileged, including revival of stalled projects and enhancement of marriage aid schemes.
She reiterated that the government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, is committed to ensuring farmers’ prosperity and economic independence. “The government remains steadfast in its mission to work for the welfare of all sections of society and to deliver on promises made to the people,” she said.
On the occasion, the Minister also distributed farm kits among members of the Scheduled Tribe community.
MLA Devsar, Peerzada Feroz Ahmad, and DDC Chairperson Mohd Afzal also spoke on the occasion, underlining the importance of coordinated efforts between departments and institutions to strengthen the agriculture sector in Kulgam district.
Director Extension SKUAST-K, Dr. Rihana Habib, Head KVK Pombay, Prof. Manzoor Ahmad, other officers, farmers and locals were present in large numbers.
The Minister was speaking at a function organised by Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Pombay on the sidelines of the live telecast of the launch of PM Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PMDDKY) by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. (JKNS)
