2.22 lakh root stocks imported for multiplication
SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 22: Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Baseer Ahmad Khan, Tuesday convened a meeting to review the functioning and progress of departments of Horticulture and Horticulture Planning & Marketing.
While reviewing the progress of Horticulture Department, the Divisional Commissioner was informed that Horticulture contributes nearly Rs 6,000 crore annually to the state economy, which is about 7-8% of the GDSP, with about 33 lakh souls directly or indirectly associated with the sector.
It was also given out in the meeting that 2.18 lakh hectares with an estimated annual production of 22.12 lakh metric tons are being cultivated under Horticulture sector.
The Divisional Commissioner was informed that the Department has imported 2.22 lakh of Clonal Root stocks for their multiplication in bulk which will facilitate propagation of high density plant material, besides 1.21 lakh of Elite High Density plants of apple during current fiscal.
While reviewing the functioning of Department of Horticulture Planning and Marketing, the Divisional Commissioner stressed on the importance of ensuring proper cold storage, grading and packaging at Fruit & Vegetable Markets and also sought immediate proposals for improving quality and marketing from the Department.
The Divisional Commissioner called for taking concrete measures to enhance productivity and better irrigation infrastructure, besides quality pesticides testing labs. He said department should work with added zeal to ensure better returns through efficient post harvest management.
He also called for high tech farming with its dissemination among fruit growers and development of horticulture infrastructure as well high class planning and marketing of horticulture produce in Kashmir.
The meeting was informed that five CA Storage units have been sanctioned by Central Government in the valley and Centre of Excellence coming up at a cost of Rs 9 crore is being established which will serve as demonstration and training centre for farmers.