MLA Kathua inaugurates first ‘Tilhan Mela’ to promote millet cultivation

Kathua, Dec 01: Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Bani Constituency, Rameshwar Singh, inaugurated the first-ever “Tilhan Mela” organised by the Department of Agriculture, Kathua, under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP).
The mela, aimed at promoting millet cultivation and modern farming techniques, saw enthusiastic participation from the farming community of the region.
Sub Divisional Magistrate Bani, Ghias-ul-Haq; Chief Agriculture Officer Kathua, Sanjeev Rai Gupta; Tehsildar Bani, Pradyuman Atri; and several officers and officials from agriculture and allied departments were also present.
Addressing the gathering of farmers, Rameshwar Singh appreciated the efforts of the Department of Agriculture Kathua in advancing agricultural practices in the Bani constituency. He highlighted key upcoming projects, including the Lavender Farm at Challah, the Potato Seed Development Farm, and the Apiculture Demonstration Centre at Sarthal. He emphasized that these projects have the potential to modernize farming practices, boost farmers’ incomes, and generate employment opportunities in the region.
The MLA urged the farming community to view agriculture as a viable entrepreneurship opportunity with the department’s support and advised against selling agricultural land.
The “Tilhan Mela” showcased the significance of millets in daily diets and promoted the adoption of advanced farming techniques for improved productivity and value addition. Stalls from the Department of Agriculture and allied departments provided insights into modern technologies and sustainable practices.
The Chief Agriculture Officer elaborated on the importance of schemes like the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme in Bani. He highlighted the region’s potential for exotic vegetable production and niche crops such as Rajma, Hill Garlic, Onion, Potato, and Off-Season Mushroom.
“These Melas help deliver farmer-friendly technologies, develop scientific temper, and encourage sustainable crop intensification practices. I urge farmers to stay connected with extension workers to enhance their farm profits,” he said.
Among others, the District Agriculture Officer, Extension, Murari Lal; SDAO Basohli, Rohit Singh Baloria; SMS Basohli, Devinder Singh; SMS Kathua, Ravi Singh; as well as AEOs, JAEOs, and officials from agriculture and allied departments were also present.