SHOPIAN: A stakeholder’s meet cum workshop on the cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants was today organised by Regional cum Facilitation Centre Northern Region, SKUAST Kashmir in collaboration with District Administration Shopian at Auditorium Hall of Government Degree College (GDC) Shopian. The Deputy Commissioner (DC) Shopian, Mohammad Shahid Saleem Dar was the chief guest and Principal GDC, Prof. Mohammad Shafiq the guest of honour on the occasion.
Speaking at the event, the DC said that the workshop is aimed to promote the cultivation of these plants, highlighting their potential to enhance farmer's incomes and contribute to sustainable agriculture in the district. He added that the youth of Shopian should also come forward and avail the schemes meant for their well-being to brighten their future. The DC emphasized the importance of adopting scientific cultivation practices and encouraged farmers to integrate medicinal plants into their farming systems.
The event brought together progressive farmers, government departments, and experts in the field to discuss opportunities and challenges associated with the cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants. Key topics included the adoption of cluster-based approaches, value addition, and market linkages to ensure profitable returns for farmers. The workshop also provided information on government schemes and subsidies available for the cultivation of various medicinal plants.
This initiative aligns with the broader efforts to promote the cultivation of medicinal plants in the district. The workshop has been organized to educate farmers about the benefits and opportunities in this sector and is expected to encourage more farmers to venture into the cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants, thereby contributing to the diversification and sustainability of agriculture in the region.
The speakers stressed the need for adopting scientific techniques to increase farm productivity. Earlier, Regional Director, National Plants Medicinal Board, Sheikh Bilal Ahmed through a PowerPoint presentation threw light on the best use of aromatic plants and their cultivation. Additional District Development Commissioner, Shopian, Dr. Nasir Ahmed Lone, experts from SKUAST and other concerned were present.
