Kathua, Nov 23: Secretary, Planning Development and Monitoring Department (PD&MD), Dr Raghav Langer on Wednesday kick-started wheat sowing across the fence at International Border in Chack Changa, Hiranagar.
Appreciating the courage and hard work of the local farmers, Dr Langer said the UT administration along with BSF authorities is actively pursuing the potential of cultivation in the border belt so that farming communities get maximum benefit from the chunk of land which was lying unutilized hitherto. He assured the farming community of all possible help to bring more area along IB under cultivation so as to motivate other farmers of the area.
Dr Langer suggested the adoption of mechanised ways of farming by establishing machinery banks under BADP, SSY schemes so as to empower local farming communities in reaping rich dividends from their produce.
Chief Agriculture Officer Kathua informed that the target for sowing wheat crop is enhanced to 200 acres from the current Rabi season which he said will be achieved with the handholding efforts of all stakeholders, government agencies and departments.
Dr Raghav Langer also inspected various developmental works, rural assets of border panchayats and interacted with progressive farmers at Haripur. Later, he presided over the proceedings of block Diwas at R.C Farms Marheen wherein he threw light on the object of public outreach initiative (Black Diwas) of the government to listen to the grievances at doorsteps of the people. He said that developmental goals can be achieved through proper coordination and cooperation of all stakeholders.
Referring to the avenues of opportunities in border areas, Dr Raghav Langer said youth should aim at becoming a job creator rather than job seeker. “Youth should explore opportunities in entrepreneurship by availing self employment opportunities extended by the government,” he said.
