Agri sector holds key to J&K’s economic future: CM

Srinagar, Aug 12: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday underlined the urgent need for self-sufficiency in agriculture and allied sectors in Jammu and Kashmir, calling them the backbone of the region’s economy and key to employment generation.Speaking at an event held at the Shalimar Convention Centre, SKUAST-K, the Chief Minister formally handed over appointment orders to newly recruited Veterinary Assistant Surgeons (VASs) and Horticulture Development Officers (HDOs).Addressing the gathering, Abdullah emphasized that agriculture remains the most vital sector in J&K’s economy.“No matter how much we grow in other sectors, there is no alternative to agriculture. It contributes the most to our GDP,” he said, dismissing any notion of competition between agriculture and tourism.The Chief Minister announced that the government will establish one dairy processing unit in every two districts, aiming to tap into the vast untapped potential of the dairy sector.“Only 4% of our daily milk production is currently processed. That leaves 96% of raw material available. We have both the supply and the market right here,” he noted, adding that value addition through milk processing would significantly benefit farmers.He also highlighted key challenges—population growth, shrinking agricultural land, and erratic weather patterns—urging a shift toward modern practices such as organic farming, vertical farming, and the use of polyhouses to ensure long-term sustainability.On the occasion, the Chief Minister delivered a strong message to the new officers:“Your office is not an office; your office is the field,” he said, urging them to stay connected to grassroots realities and to carry out their responsibilities with honesty and dedication.Minister for Agriculture Production, Javid Ahmad Dar, also addressed the event, noting that around 70% of the population in J&K depends on agriculture and allied sectors. He urged the farming community to take full advantage of the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) and other flagship schemes.“Only through coordinated efforts between the government, officers in the field, and farmers can we achieve food security and economic growth,” Dar said, congratulating the new appointees and encouraging a people-centric and innovative approach.The event was also attended by Shailendra Kumar, Principal Secretary, Agriculture Production Department; Prof. Nazir Ganai, Vice-Chancellor, SKUAST-Kashmir; senior officials; and families of the newly appointed officers.