MAY 25: In a major step toward sustainable agricultural practices and natural resource management, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo chaired the State Level Sanctioning Committee (SLSC) meeting and approved the Annual Action Plan worth ₹75.80 crore under the Watershed Development Component of Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (WDC-PMKSY) 2.0 for the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
The comprehensive action plan is designed to strengthen watershed development projects, focusing on enhancing water conservation, soil health, and agricultural productivity through community-driven efforts. The plan includes key initiatives such as spring rejuvenation, check dam construction, afforestation, and livelihood support for rural communities.
During the meeting, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo emphasized the importance of sustainable natural resource management as a cornerstone of long-term agricultural development. He directed officials to lay special emphasis on reviving traditional water sources like springs, particularly in hilly and drought-prone areas, to improve water availability for both irrigation and drinking purposes.
Highlighting the need for grassroots involvement, Dulloo urged the departments concerned to ensure active community participation in all stages of project planning and execution. “Community engagement is vital to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of watershed development programs. People must feel ownership of these projects,” he remarked.
The plan also includes capacity-building measures and training programs for local stakeholders to help them adopt modern conservation techniques and climate-resilient farming practices. The integrated watershed management approach is expected to benefit thousands of farmers across the Union Territory by improving water retention in soil, reducing erosion, and supporting year-round farming.
Officials from the Agriculture Production Department, Rural Development Department, Soil and Water Conservation, Forest, and allied sectors attended the meeting and discussed the framework for smooth and timely implementation of the plan.
The WDC-PMKSY 2.0 program aims to bring degraded land under productive use through natural resource management, climate adaptation, and livelihood generation activities. With the sanctioned action plan, Jammu and Kashmir takes a significant step forward in conserving its fragile ecosystem and boosting sustainable agriculture across rural landscapes.
The approved ₹75.80 crore investment reflects the administration’s commitment to environmental sustainability, agricultural resilience, and rural development.