Drass has potential to emerge as Agriculture hub: DC

Kacho stresses water management, productive use of land, local production and stronger market linkages to boost farm livelihoods.

DRASS: Deputy Commissioner Drass Imteeaz Kacho (JKAS) has called for concerted efforts to transform Drass into an agriculture hub, stressing scientific water management, productive use of cultivable land, organic farming and stronger market linkages to expand farm-based livelihoods in the region.

Kacho was speaking at the Exhibition-cum-Kissan Mela 2026–27, organised by the Agriculture Department at the Drass Tourist Dak Bungalow, which brought together farmers, Self Help Groups, elected representatives, officials and other stakeholders to showcase modern farming practices, local produce and government schemes.

The Deputy Commissioner underlined the need for efficient use of available water resources and urged farmers to bring unused and underutilised land under cultivation. He said sustained efforts, innovation and institutional support could help Drass develop into an important agricultural centre.

Kacho encouraged farmers to explore organic farming, quality seed production, vegetable and pea cultivation, fruit production and other crops suited to the local climate. He also called for greater participation of young people in agriculture, saying their involvement could bring new ideas, technology and entrepreneurship to the sector.

He stressed the need to increase the participation of women farmers and Self Help Groups, particularly in value addition, processing and local agricultural enterprises. On market access, he called for stronger links between local producers and institutional consumers, including the Army, to provide farmers with dependable markets and more stable income opportunities.

The Deputy Commissioner also called for greater local production to reduce dependence on agricultural commodities brought from outside the region. He encouraged farmers to explore dairy and other allied activities to diversify income and strengthen the rural economy.

He urged farmers to make full use of government schemes, subsidies and technical support available through the Agriculture Department and remain committed to their land while adopting scientific and sustainable farming practices.

The exhibition featured stalls displaying agricultural produce, traditional and modern farming tools, seeds, greenhouse models, kitchen gardening techniques, solar-based equipment and other agricultural interventions. Farmers were also briefed on government schemes, improved farming methods and technologies aimed at increasing productivity and farm incomes.

Councillor Ranbirpora said agriculture should not remain limited to kitchen gardens and urged residents to make productive use of available land. He advocated greater adoption of greenhouse technology and combining traditional knowledge with modern farming practices.

Councillor Bhimbat highlighted the growing potential of agriculture in Drass, noting that several varieties of vegetables are already being cultivated successfully. He called for expansion of agricultural land, improved irrigation, greenhouse farming and kitchen gardening, along with easier access to subsidised agricultural and solar equipment.

He also stressed the need to strengthen local production of Drass zeera, mushrooms and other high-value crops.

The event began with the National Anthem, followed by a cultural programme and screening of a documentary on agriculture-related initiatives and opportunities. The exhibition was formally inaugurated through a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Among those present were SP Drass Ishtyaq Kacho (JKPS), Chief Agriculture Officer Kargil Ashiq Hussain Basharat, Chief Horticulture Officer Kargil Ali Raza, Deputy Director Agriculture Mohammad Iqbal, LAHDC Councillors Abdul Samad and Abdul Wahid, officials, farmers, SHGs and other stakeholders.