Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election departments, Javid Ahmad Dar addressed the valedictory session of Food Safety and Health Conclave 2025 at Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) here today.
The Conclave was organised by SKIMS in collaboration with Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) Kashmir, bringing together experts, policymakers, and scientists to deliberate on strengthening food safety and public health in Jammu & Kashmir.
Director SKIMS & EOSG, Prof. M. Ashraf Ganie; President AIIMS Kalyani, Prof. Yoginder Kumar Gupta; Secretary Science & Technology, Dr. Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, medical experts, medical professionals, WHO representatives, legal experts, and religious scholars were also present on the occasion.
In his address, the Minister announced that 7,500 hectares have been identified across Jammu & Kashmir for natural farming to minimise pesticide use and promote sustainable agriculture. He said the Government is implementing flagship programmes to support farmers and enhance productivity.
Referring to recent food safety concerns, he noted that the Government and its enforcement wings acted swiftly and effectively. “Checks and balances have been considerably strengthened to safeguard public interest,” he said, adding that scientists are the real intellectual and ethical assets of the nation.
He emphasised that food safety must be pursued not only through regulatory measures but also through societal awareness and moral responsibility. He appreciated SKIMS and SKUAST-K for taking the lead in this initiative.
The Conclave featured expert discussions and panel session aimed at formulating guidelines for food safety and preparing a white paper for submission to the Government.