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J&K's Rs 5000 Crore Agri Boost: Minister Unveils Mega Farmer Fair

J&K's Agriculture Minister Javed Dar kicked off a huge farmer fair in Kathua, calling it a major gathering for the region's farming community. He announced a massive Rs 5000 crore allocation for agriculture over the next five years to boost the sector. The event was packed with stalls showing off new farming tech and traditional foods, plus live demos from agricultural experts. Local MLA Rajiv Jasrotia also pushed for better market access and promoted bamboo farming in the area.

Key Points: Javed Dar Inaugurates Kathua Kissan Mela, Announces Rs 5000 Crore Agri Plan

  • Minister Javed Dar inaugurated a major farmer fair in Kathua featuring 200 stalls showcasing innovations
  • A key Rs 1800 crore investment under the J&K SIP programme targets agricultural development
  • MLA Rajiv Jasrotia demanded permanent mandis for wheat and paddy to support local farmers
  • The event highlighted modern machinery, women-run food stalls, and demonstrations by SKUAST scientists
2 min read

Minister Javed Dar inaugurates Mega Kissan Mela, says 'Jammu-Kashmir to spend Rs 5000 crore on agriculture'

J&K Minister Javed Dar inaugurates Mega Kissan Mela in Kathua, announcing a Rs 5000 crore investment in agriculture over five years to boost farmer income.

"The HDPA, J&K's special programme, has an allocation of Rs 5000 crore for the next five years. - Minister Javed Ahmed Dar"

Kathua, December 3

Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Departments, Javed Ahmed Dar, on Tuesday inaugurated the Mega Kissan Mela at Ghatti in Kathua, calling it the "one of the biggest farmer-centric gatherings in the region." He was accompanied by MLA Rajiv Jasrotia, who joined progressive farmers, scientists and officials at a large-scale event.

During the event, the Minister inspected nearly 200 stalls set up by government departments and progressive farmers showcasing innovations in agriculture and allied sectors. A key attraction was the women-run self-help group food stall, offering traditional delicacies such as Kalari, Maize Roti, Dosa, Idli of Raggi, Bajra and more. Modern farming machinery, tractors and equipment were also displayed to raise awareness about evolving agri-technologies.

Speaking at the Mega Kissan Mela, Dar said, "Our priority is to make every farmer aware of the development schemes introduced by the J&K Government and the Centre." Highlighting key financial provisions, he stated, "Under the J&K SIP programme, we are set to invest Rs 1800 crore in the agriculture sector. The HDPA, J&K's special programme, has an allocation of Rs 5000 crore for the next five years."

He reaffirmed the region's potential, stating, "Jammu & Kashmir has immense scope in agriculture and allied sectors. Farmers must adopt modern technology and shift towards secondary agriculture for better income opportunities." He further instructed officers to organise village-level awareness camps to bridge knowledge gaps.

MLA Rajiv Jasrotia raised significant concerns and demands of local farmers. "We need permanent mandis for wheat and paddy in Kathua," he said. "There should also be a focused push to promote bamboo cultivation in the Kandi belt areas." Jasrotia urged farmers to embrace scientific methods, noting, "Modern technology is the key to boosting farm income."

The Minister also distributed cheques to fisheries beneficiaries on the occasion. The event saw significant participation from farmers, agriculture scientists and experts from SKUAST (Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology). Live demonstrations, improved seed varieties, integrated farming models, organic and natural farming technologies turned the Mega Kissan Mela into a platform for Knowledge sharing and practical learning. Chief Agricultural Officer Rajinder Kumar also briefed attendees on departmental achievements, precision farming efforts and success stories that have strengthened soil health and market linkages across Kathua.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Kalari and maize roti stalls! 😍 So happy to see our traditional Dogra cuisine getting a platform at such events. Agriculture is not just about crops, it's about our food culture too. Well done for including that.
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Vikram M
MLA Jasrotia's point about permanent mandis is crucial. Farmers suffer the most during harvest season when they have to sell at throwaway prices due to lack of proper market access. Hope this demand is taken seriously.
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Aman W
While the announcement sounds great, we have heard big numbers before. The real test is implementation. Will the village-level awareness camps actually happen? Or will it remain an event in Kathua only? Time will tell.
S
Sarah B
Interesting read. The integration of SKUAST scientists is key. Bridging the gap between university research and the farmer's field is how real progress happens. The focus on bamboo cultivation in Kandi areas seems like a smart, sustainable idea.
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Nikhil C
Secondary agriculture and fisheries! This is the way forward. Can't just rely on wheat and paddy. Farmers need diversified income sources. Hope the schemes for these are easy to access for the common kisan.

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