J&K govt looks to boost horticulture sector

Jammu and Kashmir government is contemplating to set up separate horticulture university and specialised horticulture training institutes in the state for capacity building in this key sector.
Besides, the government was also mulling setting up Centre of Excellence in horticulture for north and south Kashmir, Horticulture Minister Abdul Rehman Veeri said.
Veeri, who chaired a high-level meeting ofofficials here yesterday, saidhorticulture is among the most viable sectors of theState economy and has the potential to bring huge wealth toJammu and Kashmir.
The Minister urged the horticulture players, stakeholders and officials to adopt innovative approach to increase production and meet the market demand.

"You need to change your attitude towards the department. This is a huge department which contributes massively to the state's economy, however it lacks on many fronts,that needs to be changed", Veeri told the officials.
"Some of the areas are still lackingon infrastructure front. Money has been released but the worksare still pending. I want all such works to be completed onwar footing", he said.

The Minister directed the officials to make a comprehensive plan for boosting the sector.
The Minister said demand for horticulture products was
growing on national and global markets, which calls for new production methods to enhance output to meet this demand.

The mandis across all the district headquarters would have separate guest houses and high-end platforms for connecting to the markets across India, he said.
Veeri emphasised the need to create strong market linkages and trade relations that will help improve the region's horticulture produce and make it more competitive.
In a stern warning to the under performing officials, the minister directed them to either perform or face the music.
"You have to choose your plan. Work or get ready toget relieved from your duties", he said.
The Minister urged the stakeholders to embrace value-addition to attract more buyers and penetrate different markets across various levels.

A vibrant horticulture sector could help cushion the region during worst times, Veeri said and argued that it was vital for the region to invest more in the horticulture industry and related infrastructure, noting that it is the best alternative to boost exports.
"The challenges the sector is currently facing should be looked as an opportunity to stimulate investmentsand innovative solutions that will help it grow," he said.
Stressing on the entrepreneurship, he said that it was the only viable option to tackle increasing unemployment in thestate.
"Jammu and Kashmir has tremendous potential in horticulture, agriculture and allied sectors wherein educated unemployed youth can set up their entrepreneurial ventures with support from the government", he said.