Principal Secretary inaugurates organic vegetable sale outlet at Lalmandi SrinagarAdvocates establishment of such organic markets in all district

SRINAGAR, MAY 31- Principal Secretary Agriculture Production and Farmer’s Welfare Department, Navin Kumar Choudhary, today inaugurated an organic vegetable sale outlet at Lalmandi Srinagar.Vice Chancellor, SKUAST, Professor J. P. Sharma, was also present on the occasion.Principal Secretary visited different stalls of organic vegetables and other produce from the allied sectors. He interacted with the farmers from different districts of the valley and had feedback regarding their success stories.Navin Choudhary, while addressing on the occasion, emphasized collective approach of SKUAST, department of agriculture, JKHPMC and allied departments to achieve the goal of doubling farmers’ income by 2022. He highlighted the importance of a multi-dimensional and vibrant marketing strategy so that the farmers could get remunerative returns for their labour and efforts. He added that such organic markets should be opened at all districts and promoted in an accessible manner.Vice Chancellor SKUAST said the University will provide all the essential support to the line departments in every effort they are making for prosperity of the farming community. He said the SKUAST is working in close coordination with the department of Agriculture and allied departments.Earlier, Director Agriculture, Kashmir, Choudhary Mohammad Iqbal, gave a detailed presentation on various activities being carried out by the department towards promotion of organic cultivation in the valley.Meanwhile, various progressive farmers were awarded with the certificate of appreciation for their outstanding performance in the field of organic agriculture.Later, MD JKHPMC presented a three pronged strategy adopted by the Corporation for overall welfare of the farming community.The program was also attended by Director Horticulture, Kashmir, Aijaz Ahmad Bhat, Director Sericulture, Kashmir, Manzoor Ahmad Qaudri, Joint Directors of Agriculture Department, Chief Agriculture Officers, senior officers of the department and progressive Organic Vegetable Growers of valley.