SHOPIAN: Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Shopian in coordination with the Agriculture and allied departments organized a rural credit workshop today at block Keller, Shopian, under the Jammu & Kashmir Comprehensive Integrated Project (JKCIP).
The programme was presided over by MLA Shopian, Adv. Shabir Ahmad Kullay, and attended by DDC Member, Fazul-ud-Din Choudhary; Senior Scientist & Head, KVK Shopian, Prof. Zaffar Afroz Badri; Chief Horticulture Officer, Chief Animal Husbandry Officer, District Sheep Husbandry Officer, and representatives from Sericulture, Fisheries, JKHPMC, scientists of the Kendra, officers and officials from allied sectors, along with over 100 progressive farmers.
Members from Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), Self Help Groups (SHGs), NGOs, champion farmers, as well as press and media personnel were also present. In his address, MLA appreciated the efforts of KVK scientists for reaching every corner of the district and sensitizing farmers about various schemes launched by the UT Government for their welfare.
Prof. Zaffar Afroz Badri presented an overview of the programme, highlighting the implementation of various schemes for the larger benefit of the farming community. The workshop aimed to enhance farmers’ understanding of financial, technical, and institutional benefits available under JKCIP.
Discussions focused on pre-production interventions to improve productivity and achieve high yields. Processing and value addition of farm produce, including grading, packaging, and viable transportation methods to extend shelf life and increase market value besides market linkages with national and international Mandis and metropolitan cities, and the infrastructure needed to achieve profitable outcomes was also discussed.
Representatives from the departments of Agriculture, Horticulture, Sericulture, Sheep Husbandry, Animal Husbandry, and JKHPMC presented their schemes and services, encouraging farmers to avail these opportunities for better productivity and profitability. The event concluded with an interactive session, where farmers clarified their queries and shared their experiences.