JAMMU, DEC 07: Director Horticulture Jammu, Chaman Lal Sharma, flagged off a within-state exposure-cum-training programme aimed at empowering 150 farmers, including a notable number of women participants on Saturday.
As per the statement issued to The Newsroom 24 – Awaz, the event was launched from the office of the Chief Horticulture Officer, Jammu, in the presence of senior officials and experts, including Joint Director Horticulture Jammu Vikas Anand, Chief Horticulture Officer Jammu Rakesh Kotwal, Dean Horticulture SKUAST Jammu Dr. Vikas Tandon, and other dignitaries.
Speaking on the occasion, Director Horticulture emphasized the programme’s dual objectives of equipping farmers with advanced technologies to enhance fruit production and creating avenues for unemployed youth to establish small-scale fruit processing units for value-added products. He highlighted the role of hi-tech polyhouses in cultivating off-season fruits, vegetables, and flowers, a practice expected to improve market returns and elevate farmers’ incomes while fostering regional employment.
“This initiative is a step toward capacity building, enabling farmers to learn innovative practices that will benefit both production quality and profitability,” Director Sharma remarked.
Chief Horticulture Officer Rakesh Kotwal underscored the significance of exposure visits in modernizing horticultural practices. “Participants will not only gain insights into advanced technologies but also learn strategies for entrepreneurial ventures, ultimately boosting their income and generating employment within their communities,” he said.
The programme places special emphasis on empowering women farmers. Female participants were encouraged to explore entrepreneurial opportunities in horticulture, fostering economic independence and enhancing their role in the sector.
During the visit, farmers will tour Demonstration Sites, Hi-tech fruit plant nurseries, and Processing Units, engaging directly with horticultural experts. These interactive sessions aim to provide hands-on experience and insights into advanced techniques in fruit cultivation, processing, and marketing.
