CM calls for tech-driven, organic farming to make J&K’s agriculture globally competitive
Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday inaugurated the 11th Agritech Fair, GON’GUL-2026, at the Shalimar Campus of the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K).
Ministers Sakina Ittoo and Javed Ahmad Dar, SKUAST-K Vice Chancellor Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Registrar Prof. Azmat Alam Khan, GMC Srinagar Principal Dr. Iffat Hassan, SKUAST-K Extension Education Director Rehana Habib Kanth, university faculty members, scientists, and experts participated in the inaugural session. A large number of farmers, progressive farmers, young innovators, and agri-entrepreneurs from different parts of Kashmir also attended the event, which aimed to increase income, productivity, and sustainability in agriculture. After inaugurating the three-day Agritech Fair, the Chief Minister inspected over 100 stalls set up by agri-preneurs, new and established start-ups on the university campus, showcasing a wide range of innovative farming technologies.
On this occasion, the Chief Minister interacted with stall owners and inquired about their products, start-ups, enterprises, and technological interventions.
Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah highlighted the significant progress and contributions made by progressive farmers, growers, agricultural scientists, faculty members, and researchers in transforming the farming ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir. He stated that their continuous efforts are shaping the future of agriculture in the region and promoting innovation under various government programs aimed at modernization and economic growth.
He emphasized that to compete globally, Jammu and Kashmir must increase both the quality and quantity of its local agricultural produce. Highlighting the role of SKUAST-K and SKUAST Jammu, the Chief Minister said that the universities have made significant achievements in advancing agriculture and horticulture and have played a vital role in supporting and strengthening local farmers through research, innovation, and field outreach.
The Chief Minister emphasized that technology-driven and organic farming solutions are essential for boosting the rural economy. He stressed the importance of adopting modern farming methods, value addition, branding, and market linkage strategies to ensure better returns for farmers.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah further said that initiatives like GON’GUL provide farmers with a vital platform to interact with experts, discover new tools, and access new market opportunities, ultimately strengthening the agricultural ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir.
He also praised the new displays set up by new agri-entrepreneurs and start-ups, particularly student-led technological solutions in agriculture and irrigation. He emphasized the crucial role of universities in advancing agricultural innovation and preparing the next generation of agri-entrepreneurs. The three-day mega event, themed “NextGen Agriculture: My Produce – My Price,” showcases the latest agricultural innovations, sustainable farming practices, and emerging entrepreneurial opportunities in the agriculture sector.
