Director Agriculture guides trainees, officials in transformative visit to Centre
Pampore: A delegation comprising 31 trainees from the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) Institute of Secretariat Training and Management (ISTM), Government of India, New Delhi, led by Namita Malik, Joint Director, and Course Director of the Institute, paid a visit to the Indian International Kashmir Saffron Trade Centre (IIKSTC) in Dusoo Pampore, South Kashmir. The visit witnessed insightful interactions with Director of Agriculture Kashmir, Chowdhury Mohammad Iqbal, highlighting the strides in progressive farming and the recent attainment of the Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
During the visit, the delegation, accompanied by District Agriculture Officer Pulwama Shahnawaz Ahmad Shah, and Saffron Growers Head Abdul Majeed Wani, explored various sections of the IIKSTC facility. Director Agriculture Kashmir briefed the delegation on the center’s diverse activities, emphasizing its crucial role in supporting farmers across the country.
Director Agriculture Kashmir, Chowdhury Mohammad Iqbal, expressed satisfaction with the excellent resources available at IIKSTC, acknowledging the concerted efforts made by farmers associated with the agricultural body. Discussions during the visit centered on addressing challenges faced by farmers, with specific programs outlined for assistance.
Namita Malik, Joint Director, and Course Director of the Institute of Secretariat Training and Management, commended the progressive farming practices and the achievement of the Geographical Indication (GI) tag at IIKSTC. She highlighted the state-of-the-art machinery and free facilities provided to farmers, underscoring the commendable transition from traditional to highly scientific methods. The recognition of the GI tag by the Government of India was celebrated as a significant accomplishment for the region, showcasing Kashmir Saffron on a global scale.