August 13 (CNS): Area expansion in vegetable cultivation being taken on large scale for economic sustainability of farmers /Director Agriculture Kashmir. Vegetable cultivation is a focus area in Kashmir Division, area expansion being taken on large scale for which the department has initiated various farmer friendly programs. These views were expressed by Director Agriculture Kashmir Chowdhary Mohammad Iqbal while inspecting vegetable producing villages of Anantnag District.During the visit Choudhary Iqbal said a quick evaluation of the impact of area expansion indicates that the program is helping marginal farmers.Convergence of efforts by the departments will be of paramount importance in the years to come. The growth impact of vegetable cultivation is likely to be lasting and multi fold. The newly expanded areas are being brought Under organic as well as traditional vegetable cultivation which has made its impact. Director further added that the new interventions launched by the department have brought in much needed incentives to vegetable farmers in Kashmir valley and the same are likely to augment production. Off-season vegetables of Kashmir are likely to attain a brand and it is regularly entering terminal markets in the Country. During interaction with the progressive farmers from Village Krad Zone Shangus, Director Agriculture assured them that all possible help will be provided to safeguard their interests regarding the production and marketing of their produce. He also interacted with Hilal Ahmad Shah who is a progressive farmer involved with cultivation of different kinds of vegetables (Cucumber, Tomato and Capsicum) under Protected cultivation on a large scale.The Farmer apprised the Director that he exports 05 Quintals of Cucumber, 01 quintals of Tomato, and 01 Quintal of capsicum on daily basis to the Mandis within and outside the valley. The farmer appreciated the role of the department for educating and providing different inputs to him for increasing his production and productivity.Chowdhary directed Chief Agriculture Officer Anantnag to put in all efforts to promote organic farming in the district. During the visit Chief Agriculture officer Anantnag gave a detailed overview regarding various farmer friendly initiatives being taken by the department to change the overall agricultural scenario of district Anantnag. Director was accompanied by Deputy Director Planning M. Younis Chowdhary, Chief Agriculture Officer Anantnag , Sartaj Ahmad Shah, DAOExtension Malik Riyaz and other senior officers of the district.
