Automated Greenhouses bring summer to Bhadarwah’s winter farms

Bhadarwah, Feb 14: In a significant boost to cold-climate agriculture, Doda District Commissioner Harvinder Singh inaugurated two state-of-the-art greenhouses in Bhadarwah’s Dhareja village, marking the first such facilities under the Holistic Agriculture Development Program (HADP) in the district.

Built for Rs 21 lakh each with a 95% government subsidy, these greenhouses feature automated irrigation, climate control systems, and supplemental lighting. Progressive farmer Touqeer Bagban, who established these facilities on his land, aims to grow exotic vegetables and fruits throughout the year.

“These hi-tech greenhouses are a boon for cold climates, enabling year-round crop production even in harsh weather conditions,” said DC Harvinder Singh during the inauguration. He emphasised that the controlled environment facilities align with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of doubling farmer incomes, particularly benefiting marginal farmers in the hilly Doda district.

Bagban, the beneficiary, shared his experience: “I applied online after learning about the scheme during a program. Within two months, the department established the greenhouses, and I received the 95% subsidy of the total Rs 42 lakh investment within 15 days of completion.” He added that the project has already generated employment for seven families and enabled the cultivation of exotic produce in controlled conditions.

The advanced greenhouse structures shield plants from harsh weather while maintaining optimal growing conditions through automated climate control systems. This technology enables continuous crop production throughout the year, unlike traditional outdoor farming in cold climates, making it a potential game-changer for agriculture in the region.