Scientific institutes need to collaborate with farming community, says Minister

Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo on Saturday remarked that institutions like SKUAST-K(Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir ) have a pivotal role in promoting research and innovation in the agricultural sector.

The Minister stated this while addressing a function held on the sidelines of live telecast of launch of PM Dhan Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PMDDKY) by PM Narendra Modi.

Addressing the gathering, the Minister emphasised on the need for greater collaboration between scientific institutions and the farming community to ensure sustainable agricultural growth.

Itoo said that much more needs to be done in the agriculture and allied sectors to improve productivity and profitability. She urged the departments concerned to provide continuous handholding to farmers and equip them with the latest technologies and scientific know-how for crop improvement.

Highlighting the recent challenges faced by farmers, she noted that adverse weather conditions and closure of the National Highway caused substantial losses to the farming community. She stressed that agricultural scientists need to play a proactive role in guiding farmers towards high-yield and climate-resilient crops.

Speaking on various initiatives of government on development of agriculture sector, Sakeena Itoo said most services are now available online, making it essential to ensure proper facilitation and awareness among farmers so they can avail government schemes and programmes. She highlighted various welfare measures undertaken for the poor and underprivileged, including the revival of stalled projects, and enhancement of marriage aid schemes.

Itoo reiterated that the UT government is committed to ensuring farmers’ prosperity and economic independence. She said that the government remains steadfast in its mission to work for the welfare of all sections of society and to deliver on the promises made to the people.