Additional Chief Secretary (ACS), Agriculture Production Department, Atal Dulloo chaired a review of implementation of projects under National Horticulture Board in a meeting held at Civil Secretariat here today. Deputy Director NHB, Sansar Ahmed was also present at the meeting.
The ACS was apprised of horticulture potential of all districts, including Ramban, Kathua, Kishtwar, Baramulla and Kulgam. It was revealed that several projects have already been identified and shortlisted in these districts and are at different stages of being materialised. Some projects include protected cultivation, functional pack houses, high density plantations, extraction and processing of lavender, walnut nurseries etc.
It was emphasised by the ACS that the nurseries empanelled under the scheme seek certification under the NHB. Representatives from SKUAST-J and SKUAST-K were also encouraged to submit project proposals to benefit through the governmental initiative. Requisite support and guidance were also assured to the agriculture universities.
The ACS said that all progressive farmers, entrepreneurs and other interested parties be encouraged besides Area Marketing Officers and Chief Horticulture/ Agriculture Officers also motivate them in their respective districts. All viable business ideas, under the scheme, must be supported so that they encourage future participation by others as well, he said. It would also eliminate confusion and further generate awareness among the masses, he concluded.
Director Horticulture Planning & Marketing Vishesh Paul Mahajan; Director Horticulture Jammu, Ram Savak; Director Agriculture Jammu, KK Sharma; Managing Director among representatives of SKUAST-J, SKUAST-K and other government officers were also present at the meeting.