25 Kishtwar farmers leave for exposure visit to Punjab Agricultural University

KISHTWAR, DECEMBER 07: Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar Pankaj Sharma today flagged off a group of 25 farmers (15 female and 10 male) for a 6 day exposure visit to Punjab Agricultural University, where they will learn about commercial floriculture.
The initiative, organised by the Department of Agriculture, under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP – P14) is designed to equip farmers with advanced knowledge, technical skills, and modern cultivation practices in floriculture—an emerging sector with high income potential.
Addressing the participants, the Deputy Commissioner said that such exposure visits are extremely important for helping farmers acquire new skills and adopt modern farming methods.
He appreciated the efforts of Agriculture Department for taking up progressive initiatives under HADP and encouraging farmers to make the best use of this opportunity.
He added that learning from successful models will boost confidence, promote innovation, and help improve the income and overall well-being of farming families in Kishtwar.
Chief Agriculture Officer Kushal Chandel highlighted the rising market demand for floricultural products, their low initial investment requirements and the prospects for year-round cultivation. He encouraged farmers to adopt scientific and sustainable cultivation methods, assuring them of continuous technical support from the department.
The participating farmers expressed gratitude for the opportunity, acknowledging that the training would greatly enhance their skills, broaden their exposure, and contribute to improved livelihood prospects.
The event was attended by SMS DL Vikas Kaushal; SDO Manzoor Ahmed Sharma; SDAO Dheeraj Singh and other staff of the Agriculture Department.