- Visits Tulip Yard at KVK Gurez, Interacts with Public
BANDIPORA: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Bandipora, Indu Kanwal Chib, on Tuesday embarked on a three-day tour to Gurez Sub-Division, during which she visited various areas, interacted with the public, and reviewed ongoing developmental works.
At Kanzalwan and adjoining areas, the Deputy Commissioner interacted with local residents, patiently listened to their grievances, and assured timely redressal. She reiterated the commitment of the District Administration towards addressing public concerns and ensuring equitable development in the remote region.
At Tamaam, Markoot, the Deputy Commissioner inspected the ongoing construction of the Plastic Waste Management Unit of Block Gurez, being executed under the Swachh Bharat Mission at an estimated cost of ā¹15.45 lakh, by the Department of Rural Development. During the inspection, it was informed that the flooring work of the unit is scheduled to commence within the current week. Officials further apprised that the procurement process for the unit will be completed within the next fortnight.
The Deputy Commissioner directed the executing agency to expedite the pace of work and ensure timely completion of the project within the stipulated timeframe, emphasising the importance of efficient waste management infrastructure in the area.
The Deputy Commissioner also visited first-ever Tulip Yard established by Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Gurez, initiated to study the feasibility of tulip bulb production and flowering attributes under Gurez conditions.
The initiative, undertaken under the guidance of Vice Chancellor SKUAST-K, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai coupled with untiring support by the Director Extension, Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth and Director Research, Prof. Haroon Rashid Naik besides technical support by Division of Floriculture Landscaping & Architecture (FLA) , FoH , SKUAST-Kashmir marked a significant breakthrough in floriculture in the region.
During the visit, Head KVK/MAR&ES Gurez, Dr. Hilal Ahmad Malik, briefed the Deputy Commissioner about the innovative initiatives being undertaken at the centre with the support of SKUAST-K, including introduction of novel technologies and interventions aimed at strengthening agri-based livelihoods in the valley.
The Deputy Commissioner expressed satisfaction over the initiative and lauded KVK Gurez for establishing the Tulip Yard, terming it a pioneering step towards agricultural diversification in Gurez. She appreciated the role of the institution in revival of heritage crops and promotion of modern, location-specific technologies aimed at improving the socio-economic conditions of tribal farmers.
The Deputy Commissioner also commended the efforts of SKUAST-K in expanding the cultivation of high-value crops such as Kala Zeera, expressing optimism about increased production in the coming seasons.
During the tour, the DC also interacted with officers of various departments and stressed upon coordinated efforts to strengthen service delivery and accelerate developmental activities in Gurez.


