Srinagar: Jammu & Kashmir has topped in the Horticulture category nationally in the ‘SKOCH State of Governance Report 2021’ and was subsequently awarded ‘Star of Governance-SKOCH Award in Horticulture’ at New Delhi as a part of ‘India Governance Forum’.
Secretary Agriculture Production Department, Mohammad Akbar Wani received the award on behalf of Atal Dulloo (IAS), Financial Commissioner (Additional Chief Secretary) Agriculture Production & Farmers Welfare Department Government of Jammu & Kashmir.
The award was presented by Sameer Kochhar, Chairman, SKOCH Group.SKOCH Award, independently instituted in 2003, is India’s honest civilian honour conferred by an independent organisation as a third-party assessment. It is the only award in the country that is based on felt-needs assessment and outcome evaluation based on evidence. It, therefore, recognises people, projects and institutions that go the extra mile to make India a better nation.
Horticulture is a major sector of the UT of J&K and plays a key role in the economy of the UT and has got the potential to transform the economy of the UT. Eight Lakh families are associated with the industry and contribute about 10% of the US GDP. The sector has witnessed tremendous growth in recent years. The award was conferred particularly for advancement in High-Density apple plantation and walnut cultivation.

KR Desk