MLA Jasrotia for timely implementation of agri schemes

Jammu, Jul 13: Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Jasrota, Rajiv Jasrotia, on Sunday convened a comprehensive review meeting at the District Agriculture Office in Kathua. The purpose of the meeting was to assess progress in fund utilisation under CAPEX, the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSSs), and NABARD for the financial year 2025-26. Additionally, the meeting aimed to evaluate the current status of fertiliser and pesticide licence issuance across the Union Territory. The session was attended by department officials and officers from District Kathua.The Chief Agriculture Officer of District Kathua presented detailed updates on scheme implementation, challenges faced, and strategic measures to expedite pending activities. Jasrotia stressed the importance of timely execution, optimal utilisation of funds, and improved inter-departmental coordination to ensure that the benefits of these schemes reach the grassroots level.He reviewed the progress made under HADP, which has played a vital role in promoting sustainable agricultural practices and enhancing farmers’ livelihoods. Jasrotia emphasised that particular attention should be paid to ensure that expenditure under HADP, CSSs, and CAPEX projects aligns with the overarching goal of infrastructure development within the sector in Jasrota constituency.A detailed discussion was held on CSS projects under the Krishonnati Yojana, focusing on flagship schemes such as PMKSY, PDMC, SMAM, RAD, RKVY, PKVY, ATMA, and NFSM, all aimed at boosting rural prosperity.Speaking on the occasion, Jasrotia proposed establishing a Centre of Excellence for Entrepreneurship in Precision Vegetable and Floriculture Farming in Kathua district. He also suggested accelerating the coverage of beekeeping insurance, prioritising the completion of the Kathua District unit tracking via the KSOT App, and developing a comprehensive calendar for national and international exposure visits for local farmers.He further stressed the need to resolve issues related to fertiliser and pesticide licences, particularly those faced by krishiuddyamis (farmers). Jasrotia called for strengthening district enforcement wings, ensuring GPS-based tracking of fertiliser movement, and increasing surveillance of pesticide manufacturers and retailers.The meeting concluded with the formulation of a time-bound action plan aimed at fast-tracking project implementation and bolstering the agricultural ecosystem in Jasrota constituency.Jasrotia underscored the importance of creating awareness among farmers regarding the various schemes available to them, ensuring they can avail themselves of these initiatives. The discussion also covered ongoing schemes within Jasrota, including those completed and those still underway.The MLA directed department officials to ensure that farmers are well-informed about the schemes and their benefits, to streamline implementation processes, and to regularly monitor progress while addressing any emerging challenges. He emphasised that prioritising farmer welfare and providing access to necessary resources and support are crucial. By raising awareness and improving scheme delivery, the government aims to empower farmers and enhance their livelihoods, Jasrotia added.His unwavering commitment to the welfare of farmers and the agricultural sector was evident throughout the meeting. His efforts to review and improve the implementation of agricultural schemes are expected to have a positive impact on the lives of farmers within Jasrota constituency and beyond.