POONCH, APRIL 19: Director Agriculture Jammu (DAJ) Anil Gupta today conducted an extensive tour of Sub-Division Mendhar in district Poonch to review the progress of ongoing agricultural development initiatives.
The Director was accompanied by Joint Director Agriculture (Extension) Sanjay Anand; Chief Agriculture Officer Poonch Yograj Singh Salathia; SDAO Mendhar Sanjeev Gupta and other officers of the department.
At the outset, the Director chaired a comprehensive review meeting and assessed the physical and financial achievements under various agricultural schemes being implemented in the district. The Chief Agriculture Officer presented a detailed overview of ongoing developmental works and progress under different programmes in the district.
The DAJ emphasized the importance of result-oriented implementation, timely execution of schemes and strengthening last-mile delivery mechanisms. He urged the officers to adopt a proactive approach, maintain transparency and ensure that the benefits of government initiatives reach every eligible farmer.
During the field visit, the Director inspected a High-Tech Polyhouse established in the field of progressive woman farmer Hamida Begum at Village Bhatti Dhar. He interacted with the farmer and appreciated her efforts, highlighting the crucial and evolving role of women in agriculture. He remarked that women farmers are emerging as key drivers of innovation and sustainability in the agricultural sector.
The Director also held an interaction with Member Legislative Assembly Haveli Ajaz Ahmed Jan and local farmers, where issues and challenges faced by the farming community were discussed in detail. He informed the farmers about various schemes of the Agriculture Department and encouraged them to avail maximum benefits.
The Director inspected the newly constructed AEO Office at Julass. He also inspected fertilizer Outlets to assess the availability, stock position and distribution of fertilizers, ensuring that adequate supplies are maintained during the cropping season.
Later, he inspected the newly constructed Mushroom Controlled Condition Cropping Unit and Pasteurised Compost Making Unit established under HADP in the public sector. He hoped that the modern facility is bound to boost diversification, enhance income opportunities for farmers and promote sustainable agricultural practices in the region.
During the tour, the Director also interacted with local farmers to gather firsthand feedback on the impact of departmental schemes. He expressed satisfaction over the progress and reiterated the department’s commitment to strengthening the agricultural economy and improving the livelihood of farmers in the region.