Dec 29: In a major initiative to strengthen the agricultural sector and empower farmers at the grassroots level, Minister Javid Ahmad Dar today inaugurated a Mega Kisan Mela at Subash Stadium, Udhampur. The event was organised with the objective of directly connecting farmers with government schemes, promoting modern and scientific farming practices, and encouraging diversification into cash crops, horticulture, and allied agricultural activities.
The Mega Kisan Mela witnessed enthusiastic participation from farmers across the district, reflecting the growing interest in innovation-driven and sustainable agriculture. The mela served as a one-stop platform where farmers could interact with officials from agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, fisheries, and allied departments, gaining first-hand information about ongoing and upcoming government initiatives.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Javid Ahmad Dar emphasised that agriculture remains the backbone of the rural economy in Jammu and Kashmir. He highlighted the government’s focus on farmer-centric policies aimed at enhancing productivity, increasing income, and ensuring long-term sustainability. The Minister stressed that direct farmer–government engagement through such events helps bridge information gaps and enables farmers to fully benefit from welfare schemes.
A key focus of the Kisan Mela was the promotion of modern farming techniques, including improved seed varieties, soil health management, efficient irrigation methods, and the use of technology in agriculture. Experts and officials showcased best practices designed to reduce input costs while improving yields, thereby making farming more profitable and resilient.
The Minister also encouraged farmers to move beyond traditional cropping patterns and explore diversification into high-value cash crops, horticulture, floriculture, and allied activities such as dairy, poultry, beekeeping, and fisheries. He noted that diversification is essential for reducing risk, improving income stability, and adapting to changing climatic conditions.
Various stalls set up at the venue provided detailed information on flagship government schemes related to crop insurance, financial assistance, subsidies, farm mechanisation, and market access. Live demonstrations, technical sessions, and interactive discussions enabled farmers to gain practical insights into adopting innovative agricultural practices.
Officials from the Agriculture and Horticulture departments reiterated the administration’s commitment to supporting farmers through training, capacity building, and timely extension services. They underlined that sustainable agricultural growth can only be achieved by combining traditional knowledge with modern scientific approaches.
The Mega Kisan Mela also highlighted opportunities for value addition, post-harvest management, and market linkage, enabling farmers to maximise returns on their produce. Emphasis was laid on promoting Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) and cooperative models to strengthen collective bargaining and improve access to markets.
The event, supported by @diprjk, @Divcomjammu, @dioudhampur and coordinated under the leadership of @rai_saloni, reinforced the government’s resolve to transform agriculture into a profitable and sustainable enterprise. It underscored the vision of inclusive growth by empowering farmers with knowledge, resources, and direct access to institutional support.
The successful आयोजन of the Mega Kisan Mela at Udhampur stands as a testament to the administration’s proactive approach towards agricultural development, ensuring that farmers remain at the centre of Jammu and Kashmir’s growth story.
