Doda, March 16: CSIR Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine Jammu under its activities in CSIR Floriculture Mission conducted a planting material distribution programme at Doda and Bhaderwah wherein 415 farmer beneficiaries were provided quality germplasm of Lilium, Gladiolus and Marigold.
Awareness of scientific cultivation, crop management and post-harvest handling of floricultural crops was provided to the participating farmers.
Deputy Commissioner Doda Vishesh Pal Mahajan on the occasion appreciated the outreach of CSIR-IIIM through its activities in the mission and informed that the district offers tremendous opportunities in the floriculture sector, particularly in the production of cut flower cultivars.
He complimented the farmers registered in the mission for exhibiting interest and their active participation. He impressed upon the officers of the department of agriculture and floriculture to work in coordination with the CSIR-IIIM to ensure success in the activities being done under the mission.
Dr Shahid Rasool, Nodal Scientist CSIR Floriculture Mission, apprised the participants about the Mission implemented by CSIR-IIIM in J&K highlighting the verticals of the mission that include the development of new floral varieties; expansion of areas under region-specific floricultural crops, integration of apiculture-floriculture and capacity building for optimal production of crops and value-added products.
Owing to the high demand for cut flowers and loose flowers all across the county, the mission with its various strategically devised verticals offers a unique opportunity in enhancing the economy and livelihood of the UT.
Making a mention of the purple revolution heralded from Bhaderwah, he appreciated the enthusiastic farmers of Doda and Bhaderwah for their innovation-oriented mindset. The challenges faced by the flower growers of the region for marketing were also discussed and addressed.
