SRINAGAR: Director Agriculture Kashmir, Sartaj Ahmad Shah on Tuesday led an awareness campaign under the Khet Bachao Abhiyan at the Directorate Park, Lal Mandi, Srinagar.
The programme, organized by Chief Agriculture Officer, Srinagar, Ajaz Hussain Dar, witnessed enthusiastic participation from officers and officials of the Agriculture Department, progressive farmers, and students, who were sensitized about the objectives of the campaign and the importance of safeguarding agricultural land for future generations.
As part of the programme, a plantation drive was also organized during which the Director Agriculture, along with officers, farmers, and students, planted saplings in the Directorate premises, reaffirming the department’s commitment towards environmental conservation, ecological sustainability, and a greener future.
Addressing the gathering, the Director Agriculture emphasized the need for the effective implementation of all objectives of the Khet Bachao Abhiyan. He highlighted the importance of judicious and balanced use of fertilizers to maintain soil health and ensure sustainable agricultural production. He advocated for the increased adoption of liquid fertilizers, organic manures, and natural farming practices to improve soil fertility, reduce dependence on chemical inputs, and promote climate-resilient agriculture.
The Director further stressed the need to create widespread awareness among farmers regarding various flagship initiatives of the Government, including the PM-KISAN Scheme and the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) programme, so that eligible farmers can avail themselves of the benefits provided under these schemes. He urged the field functionaries to intensify outreach activities and strengthen farmer engagement at the grassroots level.
The programme concluded with a collective pledge by all participants to protect agricultural land, promote sustainable farming practices, conserve natural resources, and work towards the holistic development of the agriculture sector in Kashmir.