Department of Agriculture organized Kissan Mela–cum-Exhibition at Manigam today under centrally-sponsored Agriculture Technology Management Agency (ATMA) scheme. The Mela was inaugurated by District Development Commissioner, Ganderbal, Shafqat Iqbal, who was Chief Guest on the occasion.On the occasion stalls were setup by the Agriculture, Fisheries, Horticulture, Apiculture, J&K Agro Industries, Sheep and Animal Husbandry departments displaying various items related to agriculture and its allied sectors. Private entrepreneurs also displayed items including farm machinery during the Mela.SSP Ganderbal, Khalil Poswal, Joint Director Agriculture, Kashmir, CPO Ganderbal, Chief Agriculture Officer Ganderbal, officers from Agriculture and Horticulture, field functionaries and scores of farmers attended the camp.While inspecting stalls, the DDC was briefed about latest farmer friendly machinery and technologies.On the occasions, farmers were acquainted about various schemes including RKVY, MIDH, SMAM, PMKSY, NFSM, PMKISAN and PMKMY. They were also informed about various facilities like soil testing, construction of vermi compost units, construction of WHT and Tube-wells.The DDC urged the farming community to take advantage of various schemes which are in vogue for their welfare. He directed the concerned to generate awareness regarding latest farming techniques which can go a long way in doubling the farmers’ income.On the occasion, the DDC was informed that the Agriculture Department has distributed financial assistance to the tune of Rs 1.5 crore among the farmers of the district for purchasing farm machinery financial during current fiscal.On the occasion, Chief Agriculture Officer Ganderbal, said that the department of Agriculture is committed to double the farmers income by 2022 and in this back drop various schemes are being implemented which are yielding significant and positive impacts on ground.