JAMMU: Additional Chief Secretary (ACS), Agriculture Production Department (APD), Shailendra Kumar, today convened a high-level meeting to review the extent of crop damage caused by the recent spell of heavy rainfall and landslides across Jammu & Kashmir.
The meeting was attended by the Directors of Agriculture Kashmir/Jammu, and Heads of allied departments, along with representatives from SKUAST.
During the meeting, detailed deliberations were held on reports of crop losses, soil erosion, and damage to agricultural assets.
Expressing deep concern over the hardships faced by farmers, Shailendra Kumar directed the department to undertake immediate field assessments in affected areas and prepare comprehensive loss reports. He emphasised the urgent need to mobilise technical teams for on-ground support, ensure timely distribution of seeds and critical inputs where necessary, and extend advisory services to farmers on crop restoration measures.
The ACS also urged scientists from SKUAST to work in close coordination with the Agriculture Department to provide scientific solutions, including the introduction of short-duration crop varieties in severely affected regions.
He further instructed all departmental heads to maintain close coordination with district administrations and prepare contingency plans to support farmers in managing the impact of natural calamities.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, Shailendra Kumar assured that every possible step would be taken to safeguard the interests of the farming community and strengthen agricultural sector across Jammu & Kashmir.
