Director Agri Jammu assesses Agricultural Projects, HADP initiatives

Jammu, July 25: Director Agriculture Jammu, S. Arvinder Singh Reen, accompanied by a team of officers, conducted a comprehensive field visit to Marh Sub-Division to evaluate various agricultural projects and initiatives under HADP.
DAJ expressed views on the transformative impact of HADP in agricultural advancements and increasing productivity. He underscored that HADP initiatives not only aim to boost agricultural output but also play a crucial role in generating employment opportunities for youth.
He emphasized the importance of bridging the gap between farmers and the Agriculture Department’s schemes, ensuring effective implementation and maximum benefit to farmers across the region.
The visit commenced with a thorough inspection of the paddy fields owned by Vijay Kumar in Marh. The primary objective was to assess the progress of line sowing of the paddy crop. During this inspection, Director and his team meticulously examined all facets of the cultivation process, ensuring strict adherence to recommended agricultural practices.
They also verified the effective utilization of Hybrid seed varieties issued by the Agriculture Department on subsidized rates.
Additionally, the Director inspected the combine harvester belonging to Tilak Raj in Gajansoo, which was provided on subsidy under the HADP. The inspection aimed to ensure optimal functioning and utilization of the farm machinery component under HADP.
Furthering the assessment, the Director visited the apiculture unit of Rajinder Singh in Village Gajansoo, where he inspected 35 bee colonies provided on subsidy under the HADP. Rajinder Singh had successfully harvested approximately 100kg of honey from these colonies.
DAJ suggested strategies to the farmer on enhancing honey production and expanding 50 more bee colonies from 35 units through multiplication techniques.
Concluding the visit, the Director visited the Farmer Producer Organisation (FPO) named Shradha Milk & Milk Products managed by KJMPCL, to meet Sushma Kumari, a dedicated women entrepreneur. The visit aimed to evaluate the FPO’s operations and achievements in dairy production and marketing.
Joint Director Agriculture Extension Satish Sharma, SDAO Marh Sahil Gandotra and other agriculture staff accompanied DAJ during the field visit.