CS reviews Rs 1,800 Cr JKCIP rollout, calls for speedy delivery, easy farm credit
Srinagar, Jul 21: Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Monday chaired the first high-level review of the Rs 1,800 crore Jammu & Kashmir Competitiveness Improvement of Agriculture and Allied Sectors Project (JKCIP), directing immediate action on approvals, credit facilitation, and field implementation to boost agri-economy across the Union Territory.
He called for seamless integration of J&K Bank’s systems with the project portal and development of a dedicated loan product to ensure farmers get hassle-free credit support. Stressing capacity-building, he asked departments to roll out tailored training for both trainers and beneficiaries to strengthen delivery on the ground.
The meeting, organised by the Agriculture Production Department, was attended by the Principal Secretary APD, Vice Chancellor SKUAST-Jammu, Managing Directors of J&K Bank and HADP, Deputy Commissioners, and other key officials. Reviewing the Annual Work Plan and Budget for 2025–26, the Chief Secretary asked for timely execution of all approved activities.
The Rs 1,800 crore JKCIP, supported by IFAD and other stakeholders, aims to improve productivity, value addition, and market access for high-value niche crops in both J&K divisions. It targets 3 lakh households—about 15 lakh individuals—including a significant share of women, youth, and other vulnerable groups.
Out of 172 approved activities for the upcoming year, procurement worth Rs 138 crore has already been cleared by IFAD. Around Rs 75 crore has been released through BEAMS, with an additional Rs 12.5 crore sanctioned by the Finance Department.
So far, 1,240 farmers have been registered under the scheme and 478 applications received. Key interventions include sheep and goat rearing, protected cultivation, water use efficiency, and apple crop management. A special farm loan scheme with zero processing charges, 10% margin money, and repayment flexibility up to eight years is being rolled out in partnership with UTLBC.
The project also includes ongoing feasibility and business planning in tulip, saffron, apple, and wool sectors. Recruitment for key posts is underway to ensure effective execution. The Chief Secretary said rural credit workshops will begin in August to create awareness among farmers and stressed timely delivery as critical to the success of the programme.
