Empowered Farmers Essential for Viksit Bharat: Sat Sharma at Akhnoor Horticulture Development Camp

Akhnoor January 01, 2026:-The Department of Horticulture, Jammu, hosted a comprehensive Horticulture Awareness and Development Camp at Chak Brahmana, Akhnoor, as part of a strategic push to strengthen the rural economy.

Aligned with the central government’s focus on agricultural modernization, the camp aimed to introduce farmers to advanced horticultural practices, crop diversification, and various financial schemes designed to boost rural incomes.

The event saw the participation of several dignitaries, including MP Sat Sharma, MP Jugal Kishore Sharma, and MLA Mohan Lal Bhagat, who emphasized that the foundation of a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) lies in the economic empowerment of its farming community.

During the session, Sat Sharma urged the farming community to leverage the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) and the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH).

These initiatives offer critical support through subsidies, high-quality planting materials, and technical guidance. Highlighting the potential for innovation, Jugal Kishore Sharma specifically advocated for the cultivation of dragon fruit, noting its status as a high-income, low-water crop ideal for the Jammu climate.

He encouraged farmers to transition from traditional methods to becoming “agri-entrepreneurs” by adopting sustainable and high-value fruit crops.The camp served as a vital bridge between grassroots farmers and agricultural experts.

Mohan Lal Bhagat and Director Horticulture Gul Sayeed reiterated the department’s commitment to providing continuous training and improving market access. By bringing scientific knowledge and modern technology directly to the Akhnoor block, the administration aims to ensure long-term livelihood security and higher yields.

The event concluded with senior officials, including Chief Horticulture Officer R.K. Kotwal and HDO Sandeep Sharma, interacting with participants to resolve queries regarding scheme implementation and high-density plantation techniques.