The Horticulture Department, Kathua, organised an exposure-cum-training tour for 70 farmers to Bhaderwah to promote scientific and commercial cultivation of temperate fruits in the district. The initiative provided farmers with an opportunity to interact directly with scientists and horticulture experts and learn practical solutions to challenges related to fruit cultivation. During the visit, farmers received guidance on scientific apple cultivation and the production of other temperate fruits, including walnut, apricot and pear. Experts also shared information on modern horticultural practices, farm management and marketing strategies to help farmers improve productivity and generate better returns. The interaction with scientists enabled farmers to understand cultivation techniques suited to local conditions and seek solutions to their specific farming-related concerns. Participants expressed appreciation for the training and said the exposure visit provided valuable knowledge that could be applied in their fields. The initiative is expected to encourage more farmers in Kathua to adopt commercial temperate fruit cultivation and explore horticulture as a sustainable source of income. With improved technical knowledge, scientific practices and better market linkages, such programmes can contribute to strengthening the horticulture sector and creating new economic opportunities for farming communities. The exposure visit reflects continued efforts to connect farmers with scientific expertise and promote modern, knowledge-based agriculture in Jammu and Kashmir.
