ANANTNAG: Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Departments, Javid Ahmad Dar, today inaugurated a Kisan Mela-cum-Exhibition at Khanabal, Anantnag.
The event was organised by the Department of Agriculture Production and Farmers Welfare, Anantnag, under the SMAE-ATMA 2025–26 scheme to educate and motivate farmers about various welfare initiatives and modern agricultural practices.
Addressing the gathering, the Minister underlined the significance of Kisan Melas and exhibitions in spreading awareness among farmers about modern technologies, equipment, and government schemes. He said such events serve as vital platforms for knowledge sharing and capacity building within the farming community.
Javid Dar announced that similar events will be organised across Jammu and Kashmir to educate farmers about the latest innovations aimed at boosting the agriculture, horticulture, and allied sectors.
Highlighting the government’s support measures, the Minister informed that subsidies of over 50% are available to farmers for purchasing agricultural machinery under various schemes. He described agriculture as a “prosperous and promising sector,” offering vast opportunities for growth, employment, and sustainable livelihoods.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening the agricultural ecosystem, Dar said efforts are underway to enhance productivity, income, and overall well-being of farmers. He also pointed out the region’s immense potential in fisheries, oilseeds, fruits, vegetables, and allied activities such as beekeeping, mushroom cultivation, and floriculture, which can significantly boost rural incomes.
During the event, the Minister inspected stalls set up by departments including Horticulture, Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, Sheep Husbandry, Cooperative, and Labour & Employment, showcasing various schemes and services available to the farming community.
The event was attended by MLA Dooru Ghulam Ahmad Mir, MLA Pahalgam Altaf Ahmad Wani, MLA Bijbehara Dr. Bashir Ahmad Shah Veeri, MLA Anantnag East Reyaz Ahmad Khan, MLA Anantnag West Abdul Majeed Bhat, Director Agriculture Kashmir Sartaj Ahmad Shah, along with district officers, sectoral heads, farmers, and a large number of locals.
