SRINAGAR: The civil administration in Jammu has renewed its focus on addressing long-standing challenges faced by farmers cultivating agricultural land located beyond the security fence along the International Border (IB). District Magistrate Jammu, Sachin Kumar Vaishya, has directed officials to conduct a detailed assessment of these restricted farmlands to support farmers who face access and cultivation issues.
In a meeting on Sunday attended by Border Security Force (BSF) officials and concerned Sub Divisional Magistrates (SDMs), the District Magistrate highlighted the importance of accurate documentation of farmlands that remain inaccessible to farmers. He directed the SDMs to undertake ground-level mapping of such areas, including identifying uncultivable parcels of land and engaging directly with affected farmers. Coordination with the BSF will ensure comprehensive data collection and facilitate a resolution to the problem.
This initiative aligns with earlier efforts by the Divisional Commissioner of Jammu, who, in January 2021, held discussions to explore resuming agricultural activities on lands located along the zero line across the border fencing. During that meeting, attended by senior officials including the then IG BSF and Director of Agriculture, the administration reviewed the extent of cultivated and uncultivated land, including private and state-owned parcels, in border districts such as Samba and Kathua.
The issue remains a priority, as farmers not only face accessibility challenges but also threats to their safety and crops from wild boars in these restricted areas. For many years now, the BSF and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) have been actively considering a proposal to shift the security fence closer to the IB in parts of the Jammu region and six districts of Punjab. This move, if implemented, will make it easier for farmers to access their fields and help mitigate risks from crop damage and animal attacks.
The administration’s renewed focus reflects years of efforts to balance security concerns with the livelihoods of borderland farmers, signalling hope for a practical resolution to this enduring challenge.
