Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Apr 12: Minister for Horticulture, Hajj and Auqaf, Abdul Rehman Veeri today said the Government will tap the horticulture potential in the uncovered areas of Jammu division to improve economic condition of the people.
Addressing awareness camps of the farmers at Maralia, Garhi and Nai Basti in Miran Shaib and Akhnoor today, the Minister said that mainstay of State’s economy is horticulture and Government is making all out efforts to accelerate its activities to boost this important sector. He said Jammu division in general and temperate and sub-tropical zones in particular have vast potential for horticulture, which would be tapped in a big way.
The Minister asked the farmers to adopt modern horticulture techniques and avail attractive incentives available under the Centrally Sponsored Schemes. He also stressed for adopting multi-crop system and switching over to cash crops like Aloe-Vera, Amla, Mangoes, Peach, Lichi, Guava, Plum etc which require minimum irrigational facilities.
He directed the officers of Horticulture Department to launch extended awareness camps in every nook and corner of the State to educate the farmers about the horticulture schemes and incentives. He asked the youth to involve themselves in the horticulture activities and adopt it as livelihood instead of hankering after the Government jobs.
The Minister while inspecting the Fruit Plant Nurseries at Maralia and Garhi asked the concerned for their proper maintenance. He said the department will ensure availability of quality plants and equipment at the doorsteps of the beneficiaries and added that all sick nurseries will be rejuvenated.
He said keeping in view that horticulture is the mainstay of State’s economy, the Government has initiated long and short term measures for the growth of horticulture in the State. He said all the vacant posts in the department would be filled up on fast-track basis, adding that Government would also consider re-organization of the department to improve its functioning.
Interacting with the farmers, the Minister emphasized on adoption of new technological interventions and sowing of quality high yielding seeds for better production.
MLA RS Pura Dr Gagan Bhagat, MLA Akhnoor, Rajeev Sharma and MLA Khour Dr Krishan Lal Bhagat were also present on the occasion.
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