DAJ reviews implementation of agri dev schemes in Kathua

Kathua, July 19: Director Agriculture Jammu (DAJ) Arvinder Singh Reen today conducted an extensive field visit to the Billawar–Basohli area of District Kathua to review ongoing agricultural activities and progress under various flagship schemes. The Director was accompanied by Chief Agriculture Officer Kathua, Jatinder Kumar, SDAO Billawar, SDAO Bhasoli, District level Officers and staff during the tour.The visit commenced with a review meeting at the Sub-Divisional Agriculture Office Billawar, where the Director interacted with the field staff to assess the status of implementation of the Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS), Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) and Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY). He directed the staff to ensure timely and result oriented execution of these schemes for the benefit of farmers.Later, the Director inspected the Organic Vegetable Outlet at Billawar established under the theme “Khet Se Dukaan Tak.” On the occasion, the Director Agriculture stressed the importance of organic farming practices, production of chemical free vegetables and establishing marketing linkages to promote sustainable agriculture in the region.The Director also visited J&K Bank, Phinter and held a detailed meeting with the Branch Manager to review banking initiatives and collaborative efforts with the Agriculture Department. The discussion focused on expediting Kisan Credit Cards (KCC) and PMFBY processes with ease, besides resolving field-level issues faced by farmers. He emphasized on‑spot land verification, smooth registration processes and coordinated modalities between Agriculture officials and banking staff to facilitate farmers efficiently.During the tour, the Director Agriculture visited the SDAO Office, Basohli, where he addressed the staff and emphasized accelerating progress under JKCIP, PMFBY, HADP and CSS. He appreciated the efforts of the field functionaries and exhorted them to maintain a proactive approach to achieve the targets set under various schemes.Concluding the tour, the Director interacted with turmeric grower farmers in Mahanpur. He stated that turmeric cultivation in the region has not only boosted the income of farmers but also created employment opportunities. Additionally, it has helped in reducing the damage caused by monkeys, offering significant relief to the local farming community.The day-long visit underscored the department’s commitment to strengthening farmer welfare initiatives, promoting organic agriculture and enhancing institutional support to boost agricultural development in the region.