As part of the ongoing Seva Parv celebrations, a Mega Kissan Mela was today organized at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Pombay Kulgam, organized by Agriculture Department & Farmers Welfare, Kulgam under centrally sponsored sub-scheme Agriculture Technology Management Agency (ATMA).
Member of Parliament (MP), Main Altaf Ahmad Larvi inaugurated the mela in presence of DDC Chairperson, M Afzal Parrey; MLA Kulgam, M.Y. Tarigami; DC Kulgam, Athar Aamir Khan; Director Extension SKUAST-K, Dr.Rehana Habib; DDC members, M Abas, Jameela Choudhary, M Ibrahim, and other officers.
The mela witnessed enthusiastic participation of farmers. Addressing the gathering, MP praised the farmers of Kulgam for their awareness, ability to stay updated, and adoption of modern agricultural techniques for better production.
He appreciated the strong coordination between farmers and the district administration, terming it a model worth emulation. Main Altaf emphasized that awareness and proper implementation of government schemes is key to empowering farmers and urged intensified efforts to spread information about the wide range of schemes and programmes available for their benefit.
He added that agriculture and allied sectors are priority sectors, and there are several schemes in place. Awareness is essential so that people can avail themselves of their full benefits. DDC Chairperson in his address said that such melas provide an effective platform for showcasing and demonstrating modern farm technologies.
He urged farmers to adopt modern practices and machinery to enhance productivity and income. Speaking on the occasion, MLA Kulgam said that although modern farm technology is available, much more needs to be done to make the agriculture sector more profitable.
He emphasized that farmers' experiences and experiments must be valued. He further stressed that SKUAST should focus its research on controlling leaf miner and other diseases that have adversely affected apple orchards.
Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Commissioner highlighted that farmers in the district are increasingly adopting modern agricultural practices. He added that agriculture and allied sectors form the backbone of the economy of the region which is a top priority sector.
He highlighted various achievements in agriculture and allied sectors. Director Extension and other officers also spoke on the occasion. The mela witnessed enthusiastic participation of farmers, who actively engaged with experts, exhibitions, and demonstrations showcasing modern agricultural innovations.
Stalls and exhibitions were installed during the Kissan Mela, showcasing various schemes, agricultural machinery, innovative practices, and technologies aimed at benefiting farmers. The event provided a platform for awareness, knowledge sharing, and interaction between farmers, experts, and different departments.
Later progressive farmers were felicitated and sanction letters were distributed among the beneficiaries to extend the benefits of various schemes.