Baramulla: Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, Cooperatives and Election Department Javid Ahmad Dar on Saturday conducted an extensive tour of Rafiabad in Baramulla district to review the functioning of irrigation infrastructure during the ongoing agricultural season.
The Minister visited Sagipora, Zalipora, Nathipora, Bagh-e-Chatkakh, Bohipora, Wadoora, Seelo and Shankargund areas, where he inspected canals, lift irrigation schemes, distributaries and water reservoirs to assess water availability, desilting operations and the overall performance of irrigation systems.
During the visit, Dar interacted with farmers and local residents to obtain firsthand feedback on irrigation-related issues and challenges being faced in the area.
Emphasising the importance of irrigation for the agricultural sector, he described it as the lifeline of farming and stressed the need for ensuring efficient and timely water supply to cultivators.
The Minister directed concerned officers to ensure uninterrupted and equitable distribution of irrigation water, particularly to paddy-growing areas, and said no farmer should face hardship due to water shortages during the cultivation season.
He also instructed officials to identify vulnerable and underserved areas and prepare time-bound plans for the upgradation and modernisation of lift irrigation systems wherever required.
Dar reiterated that strengthening irrigation infrastructure is essential for improving agricultural productivity and supporting the farming community.
The visit was accompanied by senior officials, including the Chief Engineer of Irrigation and Flood Control Kashmir, Assistant Commissioner Development Baramulla, Executive Engineers of the Irrigation and Flood Control Department and other departmental officers.
