Jammu and Kashmir‘s Minister for Agriculture Production, Javid Ahmad Dar, has underscored the critical need for agricultural research and innovation specifically tailored to the Union Territory’s distinct agro-climatic conditions and fragile ecosystems. Addressing the 97th Annual General Meeting of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) in New Delhi, Dar emphasized that such focused research is paramount to harnessing the full potential of J&K’s agriculture, horticulture, and allied sectors.
Information reaching Tahir Rihat suggests that the minister proposed the establishment of a dedicated State Council for Agricultural Research within Jammu and Kashmir. This body, he articulated, would serve as a crucial coordinating entity, aligning research priorities and fostering stronger collaboration among various stakeholders. These stakeholders include ICAR institutions, agricultural universities, government departments, scientific experts, industry players, and the farming community itself. The aim is to ensure that research efforts are directly relevant and beneficial to the local agricultural landscape.
During his address, Javid Dar highlighted the existing research capabilities within the Union Territory, noting that Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) in both Jammu and Kashmir have collectively secured an impressive 143 patents over the preceding four years. This demonstrates a significant scientific output, which the minister stressed must be effectively translated into practical, on-the-ground solutions that directly benefit farmers. The challenge, as outlined by Dar, lies in bridging the gap between scientific discovery and its tangible application in the field, ultimately enhancing agricultural productivity and farmer livelihoods.
A key research priority identified by the minister is the development of climate-resilient horticulture. This focus encompasses several critical areas, including the production of disease-free and true-to-type planting material, advancements in corm multiplication techniques, and the cultivation of saffron varieties that are better adapted to changing climatic patterns. Furthermore, Dar called for enhanced research in precision irrigation methods, mechanization of agricultural practices, robust quality testing protocols, value addition strategies, effective branding initiatives, and the promotion of export-oriented production to boost the economic viability of J&K’s horticultural produce.
The minister also advocated for a dynamic, scientifically grounded, and region-specific plant quarantine system. Such a system, he explained, should be based on rigorous species- and host-specific Pest Risk Analysis. It should also incorporate biological Post-Entry Quarantine measures, advanced molecular indexing techniques, and process-based phytosanitary certification to safeguard the region’s agricultural health and prevent the introduction of invasive pests and diseases. This proactive approach is essential for maintaining the integrity and competitiveness of J&K’s agricultural exports.
Beyond horticulture, Javid Dar sought intensified research and innovation in animal husbandry, dairy farming, and fisheries. He also emphasized the importance of strengthening post-harvest management, processing, and value addition capabilities across all agricultural sub-sectors. The overarching objective of this enhanced research focus, according to the minister, is to significantly increase agricultural productivity, reduce the cost of inputs for farmers, build greater resilience against climate change impacts, improve access to markets, and ultimately elevate the incomes of the farming population. The minister reiterated the call for seamless collaboration between ICAR, J&K’s agricultural universities, government bodies, scientists, industry partners, and farmers to ensure that all research endeavors remain closely aligned with the specific and evolving needs of the Union Territory.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.