Minister for Agriculture Muhammad Khalil Bandh today declared Bungund village of Pulwama as the first model organic vegetable village in the state.The Minister made the announcement during a meeting of agriculture officers and representatives of Bungund village here.The Minister said that it will be a model village and the concept of organic vegetable farming will be replicated in the whole state gradually.“It is important to start from somewhere. Organic farming is better for the environment as it reduces pollution, conserves water, reduces soil erosion, increases soil fertility, and uses less energy. Farming without pesticides is also better for nearby birds and animals as well as people who live close to farms,” he said.The Minister said that usage of artificial fertilizers will be restricted and agriculture department employees will guide the locals in using model vegetable village.He also directed the officials to provide 200 irrigation pump sets for providing irrigation to the vegetable farms at critical growth junctures, besides providing them with brush cutters.To produce organic fertilizers, the village will have 20 Vermi compost pits for producing organic fertilizers.During the meeting, he stressed on the officers to revitalize the agriculture sector for the benefit of people of all areas.He also thanked Chief Minister Mehbooba for prioritizing the schemes of the agriculture sector for the economic growth of farmer community.Meanwhile, various delegations also called on the Minister from different areas of Pulwama and apprised him about their issues.The Minister reiterated the commitment of the government to equitably develop all areas of the state and assured them that their genuine demands will be fulfilled.