**Day 14**
This evening, the closing ceremony of our journey was held, with Shri Syeed Fakhrudin Hamid, IAS, Collector and District Magistrate of Anantnag, gracing the event. Our mission, the Organic Awareness Journey, covered a total of 1,111 km to promote the Holistic Agriculture Development Program (HADP) of the Agriculture Production Department of Jammu and Kashmir. During this journey, we traveled across 10 districts in the Kashmir region, visiting Chief Agriculture Offices, Sub-Division Agriculture Offices, Zone Offices, and engaging with farmers.
Introduction
The 1,111 km journey through Kashmir, aptly named Mission Organic Kashmir, was not just an odyssey across picturesque valleys but a testament to the transformative power of sustainable agriculture. This 14-day expedition, under the aegis of the Holistic Agriculture Development Program (HADP), showcased how innovation, policy support, and community participation can redefine agriculture in Jammu and Kashmir.
From November 6th to November 19th, 2024, this campaign spanned ten districts, visiting Chief Agriculture Offices, zonal hubs, and fields where progressive farmers are pioneering organic farming practices. The journey aimed to amplify awareness about HADP, a comprehensive initiative designed to enhance the agricultural economy through projects like high-tech polyhouses, integrated farming systems, and innovative marketing strategies.
Journey Highlights
Day 1-6: Unveiling HADP in Baramulla, Kupwara, and Bandipora
The journey began with a flag-off ceremony by Shri Choudhary Mohammad Iqbal, Director of Agriculture, Kashmir.
- Baramulla witnessed an impressive showcase of high-density apple orchards benefiting from HADP subsidies. Farmers were introduced to cutting-edge techniques, including integrated pest management and drip irrigation.
- Kupwara demonstrated its commitment to sustainability through vermicompost units and vegetable farming in polyhouses.
- Bandipora highlighted farmers’ innovative approaches to organic saffron and seedling production in controlled environments.
Day 7-10: Bridging Tradition and Innovation in Ganderbal, Budgam, and Pulwama
- Ganderbal farmers exemplified modern agriculture through integrated livestock systems, yielding higher income and efficiency.
- Budgam saw young entrepreneurs exploring organic mushroom farming, a profitable venture supported by HADP’s subsidy schemes.
- Pulwama, known as the saffron capital, showcased how HADP initiatives are ensuring global competitiveness for Kashmiri saffron.
Day 11-13: Exploring New Frontiers in Shopian and Kulgam
Shopian’s lush landscapes served as a backdrop for several impactful visits:
- Farmers reaping benefits from low-cost polyhouses.
- Integrated farming systems combining vegetable, fruit, and livestock production.
- Young entrepreneurs adopting innovative marketing strategies, such as eco-friendly packaging, to maximize returns.
In Kulgam, the journey highlighted success stories of farmers diversifying into exotic vegetable cultivation, supported by high-tech greenhouses. The district’s spirit of innovation shone through its youth, embracing startups in agri-business.
Day 14: Culmination in Anantnag
The journey’s final leg took us to Anantnag, where farmers displayed their advancements in polyhouse farming, organic vegetable production, and integrated systems. Shri Syeed Fakhrudin Hamid, IAS, Collector and District Magistrate of Anantnag, presided over the closing ceremony, lauding the achievements of farmers and the campaign’s role in spreading awareness.
Achievements of Mission Organic Kashmir
- Promoting Sustainable Practices: The campaign successfully showcased HADP’s role in transitioning Kashmir towards eco-friendly, sustainable agriculture.
- Empowering Farmers: Farmers learned about subsidies, modern technologies, and value-addition techniques to improve income.
- Youth Engagement: Young entrepreneurs, inspired by the journey, are adopting agri-startups, transforming Kashmir’s agricultural landscape.
- Strengthening Community Participation: The campaign brought together farmers, officials, and experts, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Key Takeaways
- HADP’s Role in Revolutionizing Agriculture: The program’s 95% subsidy schemes and technical support are pivotal in empowering farmers to adopt modern practices.
- The Power of Organic Farming: Organic practices ensure sustainable livelihoods while preserving the valley’s delicate ecosystem.
- Innovative Marketing: Educating farmers on branding, packaging, and organic labeling can exponentially increase market value.
- Youth-Led Transformation: With proper guidance and resources, the region’s youth can spearhead a modern, sustainable agricultural revolution.
Closing Thoughts
Mission Organic Kashmir was not just a journey across districts; it was a celebration of resilience, innovation, and collaboration. The farmers’ stories of transformation are proof that with the right support, Kashmir can become a beacon of sustainable agriculture in India.
This campaign is just the beginning. With the continued implementation of HADP and the community’s commitment, the dream of a sustainable, organic Kashmir is well within reach.
As this journey concludes, we invite everyone to join this movement towards a greener, healthier, and more prosperous future for Kashmir. Let’s celebrate the farmers, the innovators, and the dreamers who make it possible! 🌾✨
#MissionOrganicKashmir #HADP #SustainableAgriculture #OrganicFarming #FutureOfFarming
