SRINAGAR: Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Department, Javid Ahmad Dar, today visited the Centre of Excellence (CoE) for Horticulture at Zawoora to review its functioning and assess the technological interventions being adopted to enhance the horticultural crop productivity in the Kashmir Valley.

The Minister took stock of the facilities available at the centre and enquired about the modern technologies and innovative practices being implemented to improve the crop yield and quality. He emphasized the importance of adopting advanced horticultural techniques and strengthening research-based practices to support the farmers and boost the horticulture sector.

Highlighting the significance of traditional horticultural crops of the Valley, Javid Ahmad Dar stressed that special attention must be given to preserving and promoting indigenous varieties of walnuts and almonds. He noted that these crops possess strong potential in the face of changing climatic conditions and can play a vital role in strengthening the region’s horticultural economy.

The Minister also directed the department to ensure wider dissemination of high-quality planting material and modern horticultural practices among the farmers so that they can benefit from improved productivity and better market opportunities.

Director Horticulture Kashmir, Vikas Anand, briefed the Minister about the initiatives undertaken by the department to promote fruit cultivation and strengthen horticulture infrastructure in the region. He informed that the Centre of Excellence at Zawoora is providing high-quality varieties of walnuts, almonds and other fruit plants to the growers, aimed at enhancing the productivity and maintaining superior quality standards.

The Minister appreciated the efforts of the department and reiterated the government’s commitment towards supporting the farmers and expanding the horticulture sector through innovation, research and improved planting material. MLA Lal Chowk Sheikh Ahsan Ahmed and MLA Chanapora Mushtaq Guroo accompanied the Minister during the visit.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). ā€œHis article, ā€˜When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.ā€.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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