State Vision News Service Jammu, Nov. 20 Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today emphasized the critical role of agriculture in addressing climate change and improving the economy of Jammu and Kashmir. He was speaking at the inauguration of the four day National Agriculture Summit Farmers Fair 2024 at Sher e Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology SKUAST , Jammu. Highlighting the exigency of climate change, the Chief Minister said, Climate change is a huge challenge, and the responsibility lies on SKUAST Kashmir and Jammu to address it and assist our farmers. We can no longer depend solely on rain and snowfall, as climate patterns have drastically shifted. For instance, in our childhood, snowfall would arrive in December; now, it comes in February. Our average temperatures are also rising. To adapt, we need to promote modern agricultural practices, introduce new techniques and technologies, and raise awareness among farmers. He lauded the progress made by SKUAST Jammu in recent years, saying, I felt elated on visiting SKUAST Jammu. Since my last visit, the university has made remarkable progress, for which I congratulate the Vice Chancellor and his entire team.
The Chief Minister expressed concern over the neglect of agriculture in discussions about J K s development. In Jammu and Kashmir, we find farmers in every corner, yet when we discuss progress, we focus on factories, tourism, and facilities for pilgrims at religious places. Sadly, the contribution of farmers and the agriculture and allied sectors often goes unnoticed, he said. He stressed the economic potential of agriculture and allied sectors, stating, I firmly believe that focusing on these sectors can significantly transform J K s economy. We rely heavily on imports for many necessities, such as dairy products, meat, and oilseeds. Our efforts should aim to produce these locally through import substitution. If we achieve surplus production, we can sell it outside, leading to a positive shift in J K s economy. Omar Abdullah called for efforts to restore farming as a viable and respected livelihood for future generations. Our farmers must feel confident that their hard work on the land will generate income. However, it is disheartening that the younger generation is distancing itself from agriculture.
Productive agricultural land is increasingly being used for non agricultural purposes because our children hesitate to connect with agriculture and allied sectors. This mindset needs to change, he lamented. Speaking about Jammu s agricultural Contd. on page 2
