| Horticulture Deptt organises Fruit Show, Kissan Mela | | |  Early Times Report
DODA, Sept 16: The Horticulture Department in Doda recently organized a district-level event that showcased the bountiful agricultural potential of the region. Held at Chinta Bhaderwah under the MIDH Horticulture Zone Bhaderwah scheme, the event drew a large number of participants, including farmers, PRI members, social activists, and dignitaries.
The event was graced by the presence of Dhananter Kotwal, Chairman of the District Development Council Doda, who served as the chief guest. Other notable attendees included Ram Sevak, Director Horticulture Jammu; Madam Sangeeta Rani Bhagat, Vice Chairman of the District Development Council; Omi Chand, Block Development Council; Rakesh Kotwal, Chief Horticulture Officer Doda; Shakil Ahmed, District Horticulture Officer Doda; B.B. Pangotra, Manager Cum Chemist Bhaderwah; and Horticulture Development Officers from various zones. Additionally, scientists from RHRS and KVK Bhaderwah, officers from allied departments, and orchardists participated in the event.
During his address, DDC Chairman Dhananter Kotwal encouraged participants to take advantage of the subsidies offered under various schemes to enhance their socio-economic status. Vice Chairperson Sangeeta Rani Bhagat praised the Department's efforts, with a particular focus on women's empowerment through awareness programs.
Director Horticulture Jammu, Ram Sevak, emphasized the importance of establishing High-Density plantations, developing mother blocks, irrigation sources, drip irrigation, custom hiring centers, farm machinery banks, and processing units to empower women in the agricultural sector. He also distributed certificates to trainees of the "Art of Fruit and Vegetables" program and awards to winners of fruit exhibits.
Rakesh Kotwal, Chief Horticulture Officer Doda, encouraged participants to expand High-Density plantations of fruit plants in the upcoming season, especially for apple, walnut, apricot, pear, plum, and lime. He highlighted the suitability of the region's land and climate for such cultivation and noted that the department provides substantial subsidies, ranging from 50% to 80%, to eligible applicants under various schemes.
MCC Bhaderwah delivered a comprehensive presentation on fruit preservation and food processing techniques. Given Bhaderwah's reputation for high-quality apple and walnut production, participants were urged to adopt post-harvest processing techniques like walnut drying and hulling/peeling. The Department of Horticulture provides beneficiaries with subsidies ranging from 50% to 60% for these processes.
In his closing remarks, DHO Shakeel Ahmed extended his gratitude to all participants and expressed his satisfaction with the program's success. The event received widespread acclaim from attendees, who requested the department to organize more such programs in the near future.
The District Level Fruit Show and Kissan Mela served as a platform to promote modern agricultural practices, empower local farmers, and harness the region's agricultural potential, ultimately contributing to the socio-economic development of the Doda district. |
|
