Holistic Agriculture Policy Transforming Farmers’ Lives in Jammu & Kashmir: LG Manoj Sinha

During a special outreach programme held in Kulgam, the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha, lauded the transformative impact of the Holistic Agriculture Development Policy (HADP), which has been in effect across the Union Territory since 2022. Speaking at the event, the LG remarked: “The Holistic Agriculture Development Policy has not only enhanced the incomes of farmers but also empowered them through technology, innovation, and market linkage. It is a new dawn for the agriculture sector in Jammu and Kashmir.” The policy, aimed at overhauling the agricultural ecosystem, integrates crop diversification, value addition, modern irrigation, agri-tech interventions, and sustainable practices. In Kulgam, a district traditionally known for its horticultural produce, the scheme has enabled small and marginal farmers to shift from subsistence farming to profitable agri-enterprises. Local farmers shared testimonials about how they’ve accessed new credit facilities, improved seed varieties, cold storage chains, and training under expert guidance, resulting in higher productivity and profitability. The LG emphasized the government’s commitment to strengthening the agriculture and allied sectors and making youth active participants in agri-entrepreneurship. He also encouraged farmers to explore schemes under Mission Youth, KVIC, and PM Fasal Bima Yojana.