GANDERBAL, JUNE 12: In a significant initiative aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture and safeguarding soil health, Secretary, Agriculture Production Department (APD) in Nitu Gupta, Friday participated in the ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’ organised by the Chief Agriculture Officer, Ganderbal at Eidgah Wakura.
The programme, as per an official statement, brought together farmers, agricultural experts, and officials from Agriculture and allied departments to raise awareness about scientific and sustainable farming practices, government welfare schemes, and measures for preserving agricultural land and soil fertility.
During the event, Director Agriculture Kashmir, Sartaj Ahmad Shah presented an overview of the agricultural landscape of Ganderbal district and highlighted ongoing developmental initiatives being undertaken for the welfare of the farming community.
Addressing the gathering, the Secretary underscored the critical importance of maintaining soil health through scientific nutrient management and environmentally sustainable agricultural practices. She urged farmers to adopt natural and climate-resilient farming methods to improve productivity while preserving the ecological balance of agricultural ecosystems.
“The long-term sustainability of agriculture depends on the health of our soils. Farmers must be encouraged to adopt balanced fertilizer application, reduce excessive chemical inputs, and embrace sustainable farming practices that enhance soil fertility and ensure food security for future generations,” she said.
The Secretary further stressed the need for greater awareness and effective implementation of farmer-centric schemes to improve agricultural incomes and strengthen the rural economy. She encouraged farmers to make full use of the support available under various Central and UT government programmes.
The Secretary also interacted extensively with farmers and listened to their concerns and suggestions regarding agricultural development and service delivery.
As part of the campaign, Soil Health Cards were distributed among farmers to encourage informed nutrient management and enhance crop productivity. Awareness sessions were conducted on Natural Farming, Organic Farming, the National Mission on Edible Oils (NMEO), Kisan Credit Card (KCC), PM-KISAN, Pradhan Mantri Fasal BimaYojana (PMFBY), and the balanced and judicious use of fertilizers.
The programme was attended by Deputy Director Law Enforcement, Kashmir, Head KVK Ganderbal, Deputy Director Horticulture Kashmir, Chief Agriculture Officer Ganderbal, officers from Agriculture and allied departments, and a large number of farmers from Wakura and adjoining areas.
