Kishtwar, DD, Director Agriculture Production, Jammu, S. Arvinder Singh Reen undertook a comprehensive three-day tour of District Kishtwar from April 10 to April 12, 2025.
The visit aimed at reviewing the status of agricultural activities in the region, with a special focus on saffron cultivation.
During the tour, the Director visited saffron-growing fields in the Pochhal area and the Saffron Development Farm at Berwar, Kishtwar. He interacted with saffron growers and agricultural field staff to assess on-ground progress and address challenges in the cultivation process. The Director took note of ongoing interventions and provided guidance on improving saffron productivity and quality.
In addition, S. Arvinder Singh Reen Ji visited the office of the Sub-Divisional Agriculture Officer, Gulabgarh/Padder, Zeera Development Farm at Padder, and conducted a field visit to Karthie, Padder. These visits were aimed at evaluating the potential for diversification and expansion of agricultural practices in remote areas.
A strategic meeting was held with the District Development Commissioner, Sh.Rajesh Kumar Shavan,JKAS Kishtwar, Amjad Hussain Malik, Chief Agriculture Officer, Kishtwar and Sh. Sajid Mustafa, Chief Horticulture Officer, Kishtwar, to discuss a future roadmap for the agricultural development of the district.
Emphasis was placed on infrastructure development, sustainable practices, and strengthening market linkages.
The Director also visited the KKG-cum-sale-out counter at the AEO Office Kishtwar, verified the functioning of the KKG, and appreciated the efforts of the Krishi Udhyamis. Additionally, the Director addressed the ongoing camp on mushroom cultivation at the AEO Office Kishtwar, organized in collaboration with SBI RSETI Kishtwar, and informed the participants about the departmental initiatives.
On the concluding day, the Worthy Director chaired a detailed review meeting with the district agriculture staff and held a separate interaction with saffron growers.
He appreciated the ongoing efforts of the department and encouraged all stakeholders to work collaboratively towards making Kishtwar a leading saffron-producing district in the region.
The Director assured full departmental support for enhancing farmer capacity, infrastructure improvement, and technical guidance.
He reiterated the department’s commitment to empowering the farming community of Kishtwar through targeted schemes and innovative agricultural practices.
The Director was accompanied throughout the tour by Amjad Hussain Malik, Chief Agriculture Officer Kishtwar, DAO Kishtwar, SDO Kishtwar, SDAO Marwah, SDAO Padder and other senior field functionaries of the Agriculture Department.DD
Imran Shah is journalist associated with Diplomat Digital. He is Bureau Chief for Chenab Valley.
