Kulgam, Oct 14: Department of Agriculture in Kashmir is embarking on a mission to expand the cultivation of Mushkbudji rice, an indigenous niche crop known for its adaptability to the region’s distinct climatic conditions, as stated by the Director Agriculture, Kashmir on his Kulgam visit.
Mohammad Iqbal Chowdhary, the Director of Agriculture, emphasized the importance of utilizing similar climatic conditions and altitudes of Sangam Kokernag for the cultivation of Mushkbudji rice. He revealed plans to increase the cultivation area from the current 250 hectares to a substantial 5000 hectares within the next three years.
“We conducted a trial involving the use of paddy husks as a base for the growth of Mushkbudji, showcasing the department’s dedication to maximizing available resources for sustainable agriculture,” Chowdhary said, adding that the trial will give an average yield of 12 kg per square meter.
“The trial was successful, and the use of husk as a base without any soil on the roof of a house has yielded the results,” he said.
The department are making efforts on a widespread implementation of these techniques across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The aim is to reduce water requirements and increase agricultural output in areas conducive to Mushkbudji cultivation, he further added.
