SRINAGAR: The Agricultural and Horticultural Society of Newa, along with nearby villages, has expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, for his commitment to sustainable development and the protection of horticultural lands in the region. In a letter addressed to the Chief Minister, the society praised his government’s efforts in prioritising the preservation of these vital agricultural resources, which play a significant role in the region’s economy.
The Chief Minister had assured a delegation of Newa and its surrounding villages that his government is willing to relocated NIT campus if the residents are unwilling to home it on the karewa they have built app,e orchards on.
The society highlighted the horticultural sector’s potential to contribute significantly to the state’s economic prosperity, estimating it could grow into a Rs 1,500 crore industry within the next decade. The government’s focus on sustainable practices and safeguarding horticultural lands is seen as a vital step in achieving this milestone while ensuring environmental responsibility.
The letter also acknowledged the positive impact of the government’s initiatives on local agripreneurs and horticulturists, describing them as the backbone of the agricultural landscape. The society noted that the support provided through resources, infrastructure, and policy measures has instilled renewed confidence among farmers, fostering innovation, improving productivity, and enhancing market access. These efforts, the society said, not only uplift the livelihoods of farmers but also contribute to the overall socio-economic development of the region.
The society further commended the government’s balanced approach, which aligns with global ecological goals by prioritising both economic growth and environmental sustainability. They expressed confidence in the Chief Minister’s leadership, anticipating that the horticultural sector in Jammu and Kashmir would achieve new heights, benefiting both local communities and the state as a whole.
