Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Feb 22: Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development, and Panchayati Raj, Javed Ahmad Dar, today said that the Government has worked out a contingency plan to deal with the “drought-like” situation.
Speaking with reporters after attending the Agri Tech Mela at Gon’gul, which began at SKUAST-K Shalimar, the Minister said that while there has been less precipitation overall, he is hopeful the situation will improve.
click here to watch video
“There is an effect of global warming, and there is a drought-like situation. There has been less rain and snow, but at the same time, there is no need to panic because the department has a contingency plan,” he said.
He added that if the situation does not improve, “we have a contingency plan, we are working on it, and if needed, it will be put in place.”
The Minister said there is a Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP). program with 29 components, 16 of which are in agriculture, while the rest are for allied sectors.
“This Mela showcases achievements under the program, highlighting new innovations and research.”
This year’s Mela is special as it emphasizes secondary and sustainable agriculture, reflecting the objectives of the HADP.
With a greater focus on value addition, climate resilience, and agri-entrepreneurship, the event brings together policymakers, industry leaders, and farmers to shape the future of agriculture in J&K.
The Mela features over 400 stalls exhibiting the latest farm machinery, precision agriculture tools, seeds, planting materials, as well as farm animals and birds.
For the first time, a pet animal show was organized, where pet dogs and cats displayed their training skills. Additionally, the event also showcases majestic horses.
The Minister praised SKUAST-K for choosing ‘Gongul’ as the name for the AgriTech mela, connecting the next generation with Kashmiri culture.
He reminisced about childhood activities linked with Gongul (onset of sowing) in Kashmir and the evolution of tech-driven farming in the Valley.
He emphasized the need to preserve Kashmiri culture, known globally for its cuisine, literature, architecture, and rich traditions.
Praising the HADP, he said the initiative would change the fortunes of the people of J&K.
The Minister assured full support from the J&K Government to SKUAST-K in transforming the region’s agricultural landscape.
He also pledged strict law enforcement to curb the trade of spurious agrochemicals.
Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Vice Chancellor of SKUAST-K, stated that Gongul-2025 reflects the achievements and aspirations of J&K’s HADP.
He shared that the varsity envisions J&K as a model bioeconomy for Viksit Bharat through futuristic, innovation-led farming.
MLA Kreeri, Irfan Hafiz Lone, appreciated SKUAST-K’s role in empowering J&K farmers, policy formulation, and enforcing laws to preserve shrinking agricultural land and enhance the export potential of local produce.
MLA Sonawari, Hilal Akbar Lone, stressed the need to implement existing laws to protect natural resources and praised the scientists’ contributions to farmers’ welfare and empowerment.
Chairman of the Institute of Social and Economic Change, Bengaluru, Ashok Dalwai, noted that J&K plays a crucial role in achieving the country’s Vision 2047 targets.
This year’s edition is organized around several key subthemes, offering unique insights into modern and sustainable agriculture.
The Brand Bizz Fest facilitated networking between MNCs, FPOs, SHGs, and industry leaders, while the Food Fest celebrated diverse cuisines crafted by student startups and local food entrepreneurs.
The Startup and Tech Show highlighted groundbreaking agricultural innovations, and the Industry Exhibition showcased cutting-edge machinery and advanced farming technologies.
Gongul-2025 also emphasized sustainable farming through the Organic and Natural Farming Show, focusing on bio-inputs, and the Medicinal & Aromatic Plants Show, exploring Himalayan herbal treasures.
The Processed Products Show featured value-added and diversified farm products, while the Seed Show and Planting Material Show offered premium quality seeds and plants for farmers and gardening enthusiasts.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
