Dulloo kick-starts Aalav awareness programme for farmers

Says Aalav programme will ensure progress and lasting prosperity of farmers in region

SRINAGAR, MAY 19: Additional Chief Secretary Agriculture Production Department (APD), Atal Dulloo flagged off Aalav Awareness Programme today here from Lal Chowk.

The program aims to raise awareness about the Holistic Agriculture Development Policy (HADP) and promote the prosperity of farmers in the region.

As the chief guest of the event, Atal Dulloo, who also serves as the Vice-Chairman of the J&K Advisory Board for Development of Kisans, flagged off the awareness vehicle marking the commencement of the Aalav programme.

Heads of the Departments of Agriculture and allied sectors, as well as other board members, were present during the flag-off ceremony. The event was also attended by numerous progressive farmers from the Valley.

In his address, Dulloo emphasized the three essential dimensions of the Holistic Agriculture Development Policy: economic development, social inclusion, and environmental protection.

He also highlighted that the Aalav programme would prioritize these dimensions to ensure the progress and lasting prosperity of farmers in the region.

He said that Aalav programme marks a significant step towards the holistic development of agriculture in the region, fostering sustainable practices, and empowering farmers with the necessary knowledge and resources to thrive in their endeavors.

He added that it is a testament to the government’s dedication to the welfare and progress of farmers, as they continue to play a vital role in the growth of the agricultural sector.

The Aalav Programme, a key component of the HADP, aims to create a comprehensive support system for farmers.

It was informed that it focuses on providing them with access to training, resources, and information necessary for sustainable and profitable agriculture. Through this initiative, the Agriculture Production Department and the J&K Advisory Board for Development of Kisans aim to empower farmers and enable them to adapt to new challenges and explore new possibilities in agriculture.

The inaugural ceremony of the Aalav programme follows the successful completion of the UT-level training and orientation program for officers, which focused on the effective implementation of 29 projects under the HADP, it was revealed during the launch ceremony.

This training program equipped officers with the knowledge and skills required to support farmers and maximize the benefits of the policies and schemes under the HADP.

To ensure the success of this ambitious program, 400 resource persons have been trained across all districts. These trained individuals will serve as a bridge between the government and the farming community, providing guidance and assistance to farmers in implementing the various schemes and accessing the available resources. Additionally, 45 educational videos in multiple languages have been developed and are being screened in Panchayats to educate farmers about the schemes under the Holistic Agriculture Development Policy.

Secretary of the J&K Advisory Board for Development of Kisans, Abdul Hamid Wani  also spoke at the event, highlighting the board’s commitment to ensuring the effective implementation of the government’s meticulous plan.

The board aims to support farmers in meeting new challenges, exploring new possibilities, and making agriculture accessible and profitable, he said.