Srinagar, Feb 14: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday said technology-driven and organic solutions will play a crucial role in strengthening the rural economy, as he inaugurated the annual GONGUL festival at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST), Srinagar.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister, as per news agency , said the government is prioritising the rural economy by reinforcing sectors such as agriculture, horticulture, livestock, fisheries, floriculture and dairy. He noted that these areas have received special focus in the recent budget.
Abdullah said institutions like SKUAST Jammu and SKUAST Kashmir are enabling farmers to adopt modern, technology-driven and organic practices to enhance production, productivity and quality. He added that such initiatives would directly strengthen rural livelihoods.
Highlighting the significance of the GONGUL festival, now in its 11th edition, he said the event offers farmers and visitors exposure to emerging agricultural technologies and innovations. He emphasised the need to boost local production and improve quality to stay competitive, particularly in horticultural products such as fruits, walnuts and almonds.
Expressing concern over duty-free imports, the Chief Minister said local growers often incur losses when cheaper and high-quality foreign produce enters the market. However, he added that advancements like Controlled Atmosphere (CA) storage facilities are helping farmers improve quality and enhance market competitiveness.
He also lauded the innovation demonstrated by young participants at the festival, citing student-led technological solutions for farming and irrigation, and underscored the crucial role of universities in driving agricultural innovation. (Agencies)
