Director Sericulture reviews developmental projects in Anantnag

Anantnag, Mar 25: Director Sericulture J&K, Ajaz Ahmad Bhat conducted a surprise visit to various offices, mulberry nurseries/farms, and inspected ongoing developmental projects in Anantnag district of South Kashmir, including the Silkworm Seed Building at the Seed Station Achabal. The visit aimed to take stock of the ongoing developmental projects and preparations for the ensuing silkworm-rearing season.

During the inspection, the Director ascertained the status of developmental works related to Chawki Rearing Centers, rearing sheds, and District Offices of the department. He expressed satisfaction over the quality and pace of the ongoing works.

The Director interacted with local silkworm rearers and inspected the rearing sheds of National Awardees Smt. Rashida and Shri Noor Hassan Khan in Binglabal, Chitargul. They apprised him that by leveraging the department's schemes and facilities, they fetch a dignified livelihood and support their families.

Addressing the occasion, Bhat stated that around 150 to 300 mulberry plants have been provided to each farmer and silkworm rearer in the Binglabal and Chitargul areas of Anantnag. He urged the people of tribal areas to come forward and avail the various benefits and incentives provided by the department for establishing their own Mulberry Farms and Blocks under the Holistic Agriculture Development Program (HADP).

Interested individuals from tribal areas can contact the nearest Sericulture Assistant, District Sericulture Officer, Divisional Offices, or the Directorate of Sericulture J&K for queries, as the contact numbers have been shared through print, electronic, and social media platforms.

The Director exhorted the officers and field functionaries to work in coordination with silkworm rearers and youth, assisting them in adopting modern sericulture practices. He stressed upon the staff to adopt a proactive approach and leave no stone unturned to achieve bumper and double crop production in the upcoming rearing season.

During his visit to different farms and nurseries, Bhat informed silkworm rearers that the department would continue to facilitate financial assistance for the construction of Rearing Sheds in a phased manner. Additionally, the department distributes disinfectants to safeguard crops from diseases and provides rearing kits to the Silkworm Rearers.

The surprise visit underscores the commitment of the Sericulture Development Department, J&K, towards ensuring the efficient implementation of projects and the overall advancement of the sericulture sector in the region. The Director Sericulture J&K was accompanied by the District Sericulture Officer, Anantnag, and other field functionaries.