Srinagar, July 4, 2025: In a significant step towards bolstering agriculture and rural development in Jammu and Kashmir, Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, met Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha at Raj Bhawan, Srinagar, during a courtesy visit on Thursday. The meeting was part of the Union Minister’s two-day visit to the Union Territory, aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture, natural farming, and rural prosperity.
The interaction at Raj Bhawan followed a high-level review meeting co-chaired by Shri Chouhan and Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at the Civil Secretariat, Srinagar. Discussions focused on key policy issues, including the establishment of a ₹150-crore Clean Plant Centre under the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) to provide disease-free planting material for crops like apples, almonds, walnuts, and berries. The Minister also highlighted initiatives like the ‘Kisan Khidmat Ghar,’ a one-stop center for farmers, and the inclusion of eligible farmers in the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) and Kisan Credit Card schemes.
Shri Chouhan emphasised the Central Government’s commitment to a ‘Viksit Jammu & Kashmir’ as part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a developed India. He announced plans to provide permanent housing to approximately five lakh homeless individuals in J&K under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), with a survey already identifying eligible beneficiaries. Additionally, the Minister praised the role of Self Help Groups under the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), noting the success of ‘Lakhpati Didis’—women earning over ₹1 lakh annually—contributing to rural economic empowerment.
The visit included engagements with horticulture scientists, farmers, and ‘Lakhpati Didis’ at Khonmoh village, as well as participation in the sixth convocation ceremony of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST-K) on July 4. Shri Chouhan also joined Muharram observances in Srinagar, distributing water and sharbat, showcasing his commitment to grassroots engagement.
The Union Minister’s visit underscores the Centre’s focus on sustainable agriculture, rural development, and economic upliftment in Jammu & Kashmir, aligning with the broader goal of fostering a prosperous and inclusive region.
