SRINAGAR, Feb 11, 2026 — Minister for Agriculture Production, Javid Ahmad Dar, informed the Legislative Assembly today that 678 beneficiaries from the Beerwah constituency have been successfully integrated into the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP). Responding to an inquiry by Legislator Dr. Shafi Ahmad Wani, the Minister highlighted that horticulture in the region now spans over 3,159 hectares, producing a diverse range of crops including apples, cherries, walnuts, and almonds. To diversify local income, the government has aggressively promoted apiculture over the last three years, distributing 30 bee colonies, a honey processing unit, and a Common Hive Centre (CHC) to farmers, alongside essential agricultural tool kits.
Beyond infrastructure, the Minister emphasized the importance of training and capacity-building programs designed to enhance the scientific management of bee colonies. These initiatives have not only boosted the honey industry but have also significantly improved crop productivity through better pollination. Addressing concerns raised regarding leaf miner disease and the efficacy of pesticides, Minister Dar noted that researchers from SKUAST are actively investigating these challenges. He acknowledged that while climate change has accelerated the emergence of new plant diseases, the Agriculture Department is committed to providing timely interventions and scientific support to safeguard the livelihoods of the farming community.
