Jammu, Apr 18: Director Sericulture J&K, Ajaz Ahmad Bhat conducted an extensive field tour of Silkworm Seed Stations, Mulberry Nurseries, and Farms across Ramban and Udhampur Districts in Jammu Division. The tour aimed to review field operations and highlight the Department of Sericulture’s efforts in engaging landless, tribal farmers, and female folk in sericulture practices.
The tour commenced with a thorough examination of the District Sericulture Office in Ramban, followed by an inspection of Mulberry Nurseries and farms adjacent to the Ramban Bus Stand, covering an area of 29 Kanals of land. Bhat emphasized the department’s role in providing assistance to silkworm rearers, farmers, youth, and women for hassle-free silkworm rearing, aiming for increased cocoon production and improved livelihoods.
During his visit to Ramban District, the Director observed a network of nine Mulberry Nurseries spread over 300 Kanals of land, housing 40,000 mulberry plants. He also inspected Silkworm Seed houses in Banihal and Batote, along with the Basic Silkworm Seed Station in Chareel Banihal, which contributes to the production and distribution of high-quality silkworm seed. The Seed House in Chareel Banihal is being upgraded with an estimated cost of Rs 50 lakh, with Rs 34 lakh already allotted and Rs 25 lakh expended for the purpose.
Continuing his journey, Ajaz Bhat visited various Mulberry Nurseries and Farms in District Udhampur and inspected the upgradation works of the Seed Grainage/Cold Storage at Kud, Udhampur, which is being upgraded at an estimated cost of Rs 50 lakh. He stressed timely completion of breeding operations at Basic Seed Stations Cherry and Sial Salan, Udhampur, and oversaw upgradation works at Basic Seed Station Pata for F1 Seed Production.
Speaking on the occasion, the Director Sericulture reiterated the department’s commitment to engaging landless, tribal farmers, and female folk in sericulture practices. He emphasized providing assistance and technical guidance to ensure optimal results and income generation capacity enhancement. He urged department officers and field functionaries to disseminate awareness about available facilities and assistance actively.
Accompanying Bhat during the tour were the District Sericulture Officer, Ramban, and other department officers.
