Srinagar, Feb,14:Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday called for the adoption of technology-driven and organic farming practices to make Jammu and Kashmir’s agricultural produce globally competitive.
He was speaking after inaugurating GON’GUL-2026, the 11th AgriTech Mela, at the Shalimar Campus of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K).The three-day mega event is themed “NextGen Agriculture: My Produce–My Price” and aims to promote innovation, sustainability and entrepreneurship in the agriculture sector.
The inaugural function was attended by Ministers Sakina Itoo and Javaid Ahmad Dar, Vice Chancellor SKUAST-K Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Registrar Prof. Azmat Alam Khan, Principal GMC Srinagar Dr Iffat Hassan, Director Extension Education SKUAST-K Rehana Habib Kanth, along with university faculty members, scientists, experts, progressive farmers, agri-entrepreneurs and youth innovators from across Kashmir.
After inaugurating the event, the Chief Minister inspected over 100 stalls set up by agri-preneurs, start-ups and research institutions showcasing cutting-edge agricultural technologies, organic products, smart irrigation systems, farm machinery and value-added products. He interacted with stall owners and enquired about their innovations, enterprises and market linkages.
Addressing the gathering, Omar Abdullah praised the growers, scientists, researchers and faculty members for their exceptional contribution in transforming the agrarian landscape of Jammu and Kashmir. He said their sustained efforts under various government programmes are driving innovation, productivity and economic growth in the region.
“To compete at the global level, Jammu and Kashmir must improve both the quality and quantity of its agricultural produce,” he said, adding that technology-based interventions, organic farming, value addition, branding and market linkages are essential for ensuring better returns to farmers.
Highlighting the role of SKUAST-K and SKUAST Jammu, the Chief Minister said both universities have achieved remarkable milestones in agriculture and horticulture and have played a key role in empowering farmers through research, innovation and field-level outreach.
He further noted that platforms like GON’GUL provide farmers an opportunity to directly interact with experts, explore innovative tools and access new markets, thereby strengthening the agricultural ecosystem of the Union Territory.
The Chief Minister also lauded the innovative displays by student-led start-ups and agri-entrepreneurs, particularly appreciating technological solutions in farming and irrigation.
The AgriTech Mela is expected to witness large participation from farmers, start-ups, agri-business firms, researchers and students over the next three days, showcasing the future of NextGen Agriculture in Jammu and Kashmir.
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