Srinagar: Agriculture Production Minister Javid Ahmad Dar on Thursday flagged off 250 farmers for a one-day training programme at the Central Institute of Temperate Horticulture (CITH), Rangreth, aimed at promoting modern and scientific farming practices.
The programme, organised by the J&K Kisan Advisory Board, seeks to strengthen farmers’ technical skills and expose them to sustainable agricultural technologies and practices.
MLA Lal Chowk Sheikh Ahsan Ahmad Pardesi and senior officials of the agriculture and horticulture departments were present at the flag-off ceremony.
During the training, farmers will interact with scientists and experts from the agriculture and horticulture sectors to discuss challenges related to crop cultivation and explore practical solutions.
Addressing the participants, Dar stressed the importance of continuous capacity building and adoption of modern technologies to improve productivity and farm incomes. He said farmers would be introduced to improved crop management techniques, balanced use of fertilisers and pesticides, advanced technologies and sustainable farming methods.
The minister also emphasised the need to promote environmentally sustainable and natural farming practices while ensuring better yields and improved quality of produce.
He said the government is committed to organising regular training programmes and exposure visits to keep farmers informed about emerging technologies and best practices in agriculture.
Dar urged farmers to actively engage with experts, seek technical guidance and share field-level experiences to help develop locally relevant solutions. He also highlighted the need for stronger linkages between research institutions, extension agencies and farmers to ensure that scientific innovations reach the grassroots level.
The minister appreciated the efforts of the Kisan Advisory Board and concerned departments in organising the programme and called for continued initiatives to empower farmers through knowledge, technology and institutional support.
