SRINAGAR: In a bid to promote organic farming across the Kashmir division, Chowdhury Mohammad Iqbal, Director of Agriculture Kashmir, today flagged off Neeraj Kumar Prajapati, popularly known as the “Bicycle Man of India”, for an inspiring 1,100-kilometer cycling journey. The ride, which will cover Srinagar, Baramulla, and several other districts in the Kashmir Valley, is part of the ongoing “Mission Organic Kashmir” initiative aimed at raising awareness about organic agriculture practices in the region.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, Director Iqbal lauded Neeraj Kumar Prajapati’s commitment to promoting sustainable farming practices and his efforts to raise awareness about the benefits of organic agriculture. He highlighted the Department of Agriculture’s interventions in supporting various agricultural programs, including the promotion of organic farming, which has gained significant traction in the region.
“The intervention by the department in promoting organic agriculture is vital for the future of our farming community. This cycling journey is an excellent initiative to spread awareness about the potential of organic farming in Kashmir,” said Iqbal. He also pointed out that the department’s efforts include programs like the *Kisan Sampark Abhiyan*, which engages farmers directly to educate them about modern, eco-friendly farming techniques.
Neeraj Kumar Prajapati, known for his unique efforts to spread awareness on sustainable agriculture practices across India, will travel to various districts in Kashmir, engaging with farmers and local communities to share insights on the benefits of organic farming. His journey is expected to further bolster the ongoing Mission Organic Kashmir, which aims to position the region as a hub for organic produce.
Senior officers from the Department of Agriculture were also present during the ceremony, offering their support for the initiative and reiterating the department’s commitment to promoting sustainable agricultural practices in the Valley.
The Mission Organic Kashmir initiative, launched by the Jammu and Kashmir government, seeks to encourage farmers to transition from conventional farming methods to organic farming, helping to improve both the economic returns for farmers and the environmental health of the region.