Srinagar, 14 Jan 2025 (ANN): A high-level meeting to finalize the Action Plan for the first-of-its-kind Novel Natural Farming Initiative for the year 2025-26 was held today under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat.

The meeting was attended by key district officials, including the Chief Planning Officer, Chief Agriculture Officer, Chief Horticulture Officer, Chief Animal Husbandry Officer, and other district-level officers.

During the session, the Deputy Commissioner reviewed the proposed Action Plan in detail and emphasized the importance of implementing the initiative effectively. Highlighting the benefits of Novel Natural Farming, Dr. Bhat stated that this innovative approach will ensure sustainable agricultural growth while preserving the natural environment.

The DC urged the officers to adhere strictly to the scheme’s guidelines and ensure its successful execution in the district.

As part of the meeting, the Chief Agriculture Officer Srinagar delivered a detailed PowerPoint presentation on the initiative. He explained that Natural Farming is a sustainable agricultural method that relies on natural farm-based inputs such as farmyard manure (FYM), Agniastra, Beejmitra, and other organic solutions for disease, pest, and weed control. The approach discourages the use of chemical-based fertilizers and pesticides, focusing instead on producing natural inputs on-site to maintain ecological balance.

The increasing use of pesticides in agriculture in Kashmir, especially to grow apples in Kashmir has become a matter of serious concern. It is not only impacting the health of farmers and consumers but also posing a threat to environment and biodiversity.
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