In a significant step toward promoting organic farming and empowering women farmers, the Director Agriculture Jammu, S. Arvinder Singh Reen today inaugurated a Commercial Vermicompost Unit under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) at Bhajwal-A, Nadani, Sunderbani, District Rajouri.
The unit has been established by progressive woman farmer Kulwanti Devi, serving as a model for sustainable and chemical-free agricultural practices in the region. The inaugural event witnessed the presence of Chief Agriculture Officer Rajouri, S. Madan Gopal Singh, Tehsil Horticulture Officer, Sunderbani, Arun Kumar Sharma and other dignitaries including Yashpal Sharma, Dr. Mulkhraj Sharma and Vinod Raina (Sathi), along with senior officers from the Agriculture Department.
Speaking on the occasion, the Director emphasized the importance of organic farming in improving soil health, reducing input costs and enhancing farm incomes. “Under HADP, we are establishing commercial vermicompost units as decentralized hubs for organic input production,” he said.
“Progressive farmers like Kulwanti Devi are leading the change towards a greener, healthier agriculture ecosystem.” He highlighted that such initiatives reduce dependency on chemical fertilizers, contribute to a healthier environment and create sustainable livelihood opportunities, particularly for women and smallholder farmers.
“This unit is not just a production center; it’s a symbol of self-reliance and a healthier future for our next generation,” he added. The Chief Agriculture Officer praised the initiative, stating, “This unit not only ensures local availability of organic compost but also fosters rural entrepreneurship, particularly among women.”
Expressing her gratitude, Kulwanti Devi thanked Lieutenant Governor J&K Manoj Sinha, Principal Secretary Agriculture Production Department Shailendra Kumar, Director Agriculture Jammu and the Agriculture Department for their support.
“This project will benefit both local farmers and urban households, especially those cultivating vegetables on their rooftops. As part of his field visit, the Director inspected the tomato crop in the fields of progressive farmer Darshan Sharma in village Bhajwal, where he assessed the quality of the harvested produce.
He appreciated the efforts made by the farmer in adopting modern and eco-friendly cultivation practices. Later, the Director also visited the SM Farm at Laberi, where he reviewed ongoing agricultural activities and interacted with field staff.