Satish Sharma emphasises scientific innovation for sustainable agriculture

Jammu, July 27:- Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Information Technology, and Science & Technology, Satish Sharma today underscored the critical role of scientific innovation, technology integration and climate-resilient practices in transforming agriculture into a sustainable and economically viable sector in Jammu & Kashmir.According to a statement issued here, Sharma was speaking at the Foundation Day celebration of Unati Agri Allied & Marketing Multi-State Cooperative Society Limited, organized in collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology, J&K UT. Themed “Sustainable Agriculture through Scientific Interventions,” the event brought together scientists, policymakers, farmers, entrepreneurs and youth from across the region.The Minister highlighted the government’s commitment towards empowering the farmers by promoting modern agricultural techniques, facilitating access to renewable energy solutions and creating a strong linkage between research institutions, cooperatives, and rural communities. “Agriculture today must go beyond subsistence. It must be smart, sustainable and scalable. Through scientific interventions and robust policy support, we are enabling the farmers to become self-reliant, tech-savvy and economically empowered,” the Minister said.The Minister lauded the efforts of Unati Agri Allied Cooperative and the Science & Technology Department in organizing a knowledge-driven platform that aligns with the vision of climate-smart, tech-enabled agriculture. He reaffirmed the government’s resolve to support such initiatives and ensure greater outreach, funding support and policy facilitation to realize the full potential of Jammu and Kashmir’s agricultural sector.Key highlights of the event included expert sessions on organic farming, regenerative practices, biotechnology and precision agriculture, demonstrations on the use of solar and renewable energy in farming, including initiatives under the KUSUM scheme, awareness on government-supported schemes to promote agri-entrepreneurship and aroma cultivation, emphasis on integrating youth and startups into the agricultural innovation ecosystem.