Sopore, Oct 15: Amid ongoing efforts to address the challenges faced by the farming community due to recent adverse weather conditions, Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Departments, J&K, Javid Ahmad Dar, on Wednesday said that the government has completed the assessment of crop losses suffered by farmers across Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking during his visit to the SKUAST-Kashmir, Wadura Campus, Sopore, the Minister expressed concern over the hardships faced by the farmers due to untimely rains, hailstorms, and fluctuating temperatures that damaged standing crops, fruits, and vegetables in several parts of the Valley. “We have already framed the assessment for losses of the affected farmers, and the details have been submitted to the concerned authorities,” the Minister said, adding that the Union Territory government is in constant touch with the Central Government. He expressed hope that a special relief package will soon be announced to provide timely financial support and compensation to the affected farming families.
He mentioned that the administration is working on crop insurance schemes, improved irrigation systems, and weather-resilient farming techniques to minimise the impact of future natural calamities.
During his visit, the Minister also interacted with scientists, students, and progressive farmers, encouraging them to adopt innovative farming methods and technology-driven solutions. He emphasized that institutions like SKUAST-Kashmir play a crucial role in developing climate-smart agricultural practices and in training the next generation of agri-professionals.
An official statement added: “The Minister laid the foundation stones of several important facilities including the Medical Centre, Speed Breeding Lab, and Gene Bank. He also inaugurated the Exhibition, HVC Sports Wee.” He also inaugurated a series of landmark initiatives aimed at bolstering scientific research, student welfare, and innovation-driven farming practices. Marking the formal commencement of the Rabi season, the Minister ceremoniously initiated the sowing of Rabi crops including Brown Sarson, Oats, and Kala Zeera.
Addressing the gathering, the Vice Chancellor, in his remarks, highlighted SKUAST-K’s commitment to translational research and academic excellence, underscoring the University’s vision to bridge the gap between laboratory research and field-level impact.
