Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha inaugurated the Litchi Festival and Agriculture Exhibition organized by the Horticulture Department in Jammu on June 23. This initiative demonstrates the administration’s unwavering commitment to farmers’ welfare and its determination to explore new ways to bring prosperity to their lives. In his address, he congratulated the progressive farmers, growers, and stakeholders involved. He highlighted the administration’s dedication, under the guidance of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, to unlocking the potential of the agriculture and horticulture sectors through progressive reforms and policies. The Holistic Agriculture Development Program (HADP) has been transformative for Jammu and Kashmir’s agricultural and allied sectors. “HADP has emerged as a game-changer for J&K’s Agriculture and Allied Sector. The 29 projects under HADP hold significant potential to address the challenges faced by farmers and diversify their income sources,” Lt. Governor Sinha said. He called for collective efforts from all stakeholders for the effective on-ground implementation of HADP, especially in the Jammu Division. Agricultural Universities were urged to make dedicated interventions that can increase farmers’ incomes in the litchi plantation sector. The administration aims to convert approximately 160 hectares of litchi cultivation into high-density plantations over the coming years, with assurances of necessary support and assistance in marketing litchi and other fruits. He also commended the contributions of progressive farmers in encouraging small and marginal farmers towards diversification. He visited the stalls set up by farmers and entrepreneurs, and felicitated winners in the best stall category. A book on litchi cultivation was also released on the occasion. Progressive farmers shared their success stories and expressed gratitude to the government for schemes like HADP. The event was attended by Sh. Bharat Bhushan, Chairman of DDC Jammu; Sh. Shailendra Kumar, Principal Secretary of Agriculture Production Department; Dr. B.N. Tripathi, Vice Chancellor of SKUAST Jammu; Sh. Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; senior officials, farmers, and various stakeholders.