Shivraj Singh Chouhan Visits SKUAST-K, Meets Farmers

As part of his two-day official visit to Jammu & Kashmir, Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, visited the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) in Shalimar. The visit, aimed at understanding and supporting horticultural innovations and farmer-centric practices, featured an extensive review of cutting-edge techniques and direct interaction with stakeholders from across the agricultural value chain.

Field Visit to SKUAST-K: Spotlight on Innovation and Science

During his campus tour, Shri Chouhan was given a detailed briefing on the advancements made by SKUAST-K in horticulture. He observed innovative research and demonstration blocks showcasing high-yield apple varieties capable of fruiting within the first year of plantation. This breakthrough promises to reduce gestation periods and accelerate orchard productivity across the Valley.

The Minister also examined new protective netting systems against hail damage, scientific pruning techniques, and efficient irrigation and nutrient delivery systems. These methods, according to researchers and farmers, have led to significantly improved crop yields and income stability. Several growers shared firsthand testimonials of the positive impact of modern horticultural practices on their livelihoods.

Student Participation and Post-Harvest Innovations

Students from across India studying at SKUAST-K showcased a diverse range of horticultural produce, including apples, apricots, walnuts, almonds, and berries. Noteworthy among their displays were innovations in post-harvest techniques, such as apples preserved for over six months using advanced cold storage. Shri Chouhan praised their efforts and commended the university’s contribution to agricultural innovation and experiential learning.

Dialogue with Key Agricultural Stakeholders

Following the field visit, Shri Chouhan led an extensive stakeholder meeting with a diverse group of participants including farmers, beekeepers, nursery owners, cold storage operators, and agri-entrepreneurs. This platform allowed open discussion on both the emerging opportunities and persisting challenges in the agriculture and allied sectors.

Attendees praised the government’s proactive stance on farmer welfare, particularly initiatives such as GI tagging for local produce, subsidies for high-density plantations under the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH), and support for cold storage infrastructure.

However, several critical issues were raised during the dialogue:

• Saffron Growers demanded better irrigation through the activation of 128 borewells, and enhanced research to compete globally, particularly against Iranian saffron.
• Beekeepers sought insurance schemes, financial support, and regulation of pesticide use which affects bee populations.
• Apple Farmers expressed concern over climate change impacts, hailstorms, and input affordability, especially for marginal growers.
• Cold Storage Operators urged fair procurement prices, competitive subsidies, and protection against market disruptions caused by outside produce.
• Nursery Operators highlighted logistical difficulties in transporting planting material and advocated for a dedicated railway policy.

Minister’s Response: Farmer-Centric Vision and Reforms

Shri Chouhan addressed the concerns positively, emphasizing that agriculture is more than a livelihood — it is a noble “seva” or service to the nation. He reaffirmed the government’s steadfast commitment to enhancing farmers’ incomes and providing comprehensive support across the entire agricultural value chain, from “seed to shelf.”

He announced several important measures:

• Strengthening Research Outreach: Scientists from ICAR will spend more time in fields to understand real-world challenges and help implement viable solutions.
• Clean Plant Centres: Disease-free planting material will be made widely available through new centres, and private nurseries will receive subsidy support.
• Boost to HADPL: The Horticulture and Agro-Processing Development Limited will lead efforts in agro-processing, logistics, and market connectivity.
• Protection from Imports: Import duties will be calibrated to safeguard local producers, while steps will be taken to develop export infrastructure for Kashmiri produce.
• Pesticide Regulation: Shri Chouhan committed to reforming the pesticide sector with stringent checks, including potential imprisonment for sale of substandard products, while ensuring fair and affordable prices for genuine inputs.

Reaffirming Personal Commitment to Farmers

Concluding his address, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan assured the attendees that he remains personally accessible to every farmer in need. “My phone is always on for farmers,” he said, adding that true governance is rooted in empathy, accountability, and constant dialogue with those on the ground.

His visit marked a pivotal moment in the government’s efforts to make Jammu & Kashmir a flourishing horticultural hub — one that is technologically advanced, economically viable, and globally competitive. With this engagement, the Union Government reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable agriculture, rural empowerment, and building a resilient agri-economy for India’s future.