Reasi, March 12, 2025 – Nek Ram, a farmer from District Reasi who operates a mushroom unit under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), has lauded the Jammu and Kashmir government’s recent budget allocation of ₹815 crore for the development of the agriculture sector in the Union Territory. The announcement, made as part of the 2025-26 budget by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, aims to modernize agriculture, boost farmer incomes, and enhance productivity across the region.
Nek Ram, whose mushroom farming venture has benefited from government support, expressed optimism about the transformative potential of this investment. “This ₹815 crore allocation is a game-changer for farmers like me,” he said. “It shows the government’s commitment to strengthening agriculture and allied sectors, which are the backbone of Jammu and Kashmir’s economy.”
He also emphasized the variety of government schemes available to farmers, designed to improve production and profitability. “There are numerous schemes that provide financial assistance, training, and resources to enhance farming practices,” Nek Ram noted. “I urge all farmers to explore and take advantage of these opportunities to make their work more sustainable and profitable.”
The ₹815 crore allocation is part of a broader strategy under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), which has a total outlay of ₹5,013 crore until 2027-28. The initiative targets the creation of 2.88 lakh jobs, the establishment of 19,000 enterprises, and an 11% growth in the agricultural sector for the fiscal year 2025-26. Alongside this, the government has committed ₹2,221.58 crore in capital expenditure for agriculture and allied sectors, marking a significant increase from the previous year.
Nek Ram’s success with mushroom farming serves as a testament to the potential of these schemes. “The HADP has provided me with the tools and support to grow my business,” he said. “With this new funding, I believe more farmers will be able to thrive and contribute to the region’s prosperity.”
Agricultural experts and officials have echoed Nek Ram’s sentiments, highlighting that the investment will focus on advanced technologies, improved infrastructure, and market linkages to ensure farmers reap long-term benefits. However, some have cautioned that effective implementation will be key to translating these funds into tangible outcomes for the farming community.
As Jammu and Kashmir looks to build a robust agricultural economy, voices like Nek Ram’s underscore the importance of grassroots participation in government initiatives. With the right support, farmers across the Union Territory may soon see a brighter, more profitable future.