DC approves 132 cases under JKCIP, 213 under ISDS to boost Agri & allied sectors

Budgam, Aug 28: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Budgam, Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat, Thursday convened a meeting on the Jammu and Kashmir Competitiveness Improvement in Agriculture and Allied Sectors Project (JKCIP) and the Integrated Sheep Development Scheme (ISDS) at the DC office complex Budgam.According to a statement issued here, the meeting aimed to evaluate and approve eligible applications received from various Agriculture and Allied Departments. After thorough deliberations, DC approved 132 applications under JKCIP, including 65 in Agriculture, 32 in Horticulture, 27 in Sheep Husbandry, and 08 in Fisheries. Similarly, under Integrated Sheep Development Scheme (ISDS), 213 cases were approved across Budgam district.Under JKCIP, beneficiaries will be extended assistance for installation of borewells, cultivation of aromatic species, Shallot, hill garlic, mushroom, saffron area expansion, development of high-yield orchards, solar fencing, construction of sheep sheds, supply of trolleys, and other modern interventions aimed at improving productivity and sustainability. Dr Bilal stressed that agriculture and allied sectors remain the backbone of Budgam’s rural economy, and such government interventions are instrumental in providing direct livelihood support, skill enhancement, and better market competitiveness to farmers and youth. He said that these approvals mark a significant step towards improving farmers’ access to modern infrastructure, sustainable practices, and diversified income avenues. He added that the objective is not just to provide financial assistance but also to ensure capacity building and long-term sustainability of the projects sanctioned. DC directed the concerned officers to facilitate speedy implementation of approved cases and provide handholding support to all beneficiaries. He emphasised that officers must work in close coordination with farmers to ensure that every project from borewell installation to orchard development is executed on ground in a time-bound, transparent, and accountable manner. Regarding ISDS, DC said that approving 213 cases in one go will give a big push to the sheep sector, which is a traditional and promising livelihood in the district. He underlined the need for strengthening animal health support services, market linkages, and fodder availability to ensure that the scheme benefits are maximised for sheep rearers.