Srinagar, Nov 7: Minister for Agriculture Production Javid Ahmad Dar on Saturday called for transforming Jammu and Kashmir's agriculture sector through scientific farming, technological interventions, crop diversification and sustainable management of natural resources.

He was addressing a District-Level Exhibition-cum-Kissan Mela organised by the Department of Agriculture Production and Farmers Welfare, Kashmir, under the National Mission on Agricultural Extension and Technology (NMAET)–Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) at Darbagh, Harwan.
MLA Hazratbal Salman Ali Sagar, Director Agriculture Kashmir Sartaj Ahmad Shah, Chief Agriculture Officer Srinagar Mir Aijaz Hassan, senior departmental officers, agricultural experts and progressive farmers attended the programme.
The event began with a band performance by a local youth club, highlighting community participation. The dignitaries later inspected departmental stalls showcasing modern agricultural technologies, farm machinery, improved cultivation practices, innovative interventions and farmer-oriented government schemes.
Addressing the gathering, Javid Dar described agriculture and allied sectors as vital pillars of J&K's economy and stressed the need to make farming more productive, remunerative and sustainable.
He urged farmers to adopt scientific techniques, diversify crops and utilise modern technologies to enhance productivity and improve their incomes. He also emphasised strengthening grassroots extension services and ensuring that government support reaches farmers effectively.
Highlighting the importance of soil conservation, the Minister advocated judicious use of chemical fertilisers, soil-test-based nutrient application and integrated nutrient management. He said sustainable farming and conservation of natural resources were essential for protecting agricultural productivity for future generations.
He directed departmental officers and field functionaries to maintain regular engagement with farmers, provide scientific advisories and ensure transparent and timely delivery of government schemes.
The Minister also highlighted the potential of agriculture and allied activities in generating employment and strengthening rural livelihoods, particularly for youth, and encouraged farmers to explore emerging opportunities in diversified farming.
MLA Salman Ali Sagar stressed the need to strengthen agricultural infrastructure, expand the outreach of government schemes and provide adequate institutional support to farmers.
During the programme, sanction letters were distributed among eligible beneficiaries to facilitate access to departmental assistance under various interventions.
Director Agriculture Kashmir Sartaj Ahmad Shah highlighted the department's ongoing initiatives, including Reform Utsav 2026 and Khet Bachao Abhiyan, Rabi 2026, aimed at increasing public participation, improving scheme coverage and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
The Kissan Mela provided a platform for farmers to interact with agricultural experts and departmental officers, seek technical guidance and learn about modern technologies, improved cultivation methods and available government assistance.