Agriculture Department  Reasi organises training program on ‘Fodder Development’  

REASI, February 17: An orientation cum training programme on “Development of Fodder Resources for UT of J&K” was today organised by Agriculture Production Department under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme, here in the Conference hall of DC Office complex.

The training programme aimed at the capacity building of field functionaries and farmers for improvement and development of fodder resources and scaling up of fodder production.

 The Program was attended by officers and field functionaries of Agriculture department, Animal and sheep husbandry department and scientists from KVK Reasi.

Chief Agriculture Officer, Harbans Singh, while presiding over the training programe, said that the department is encouraging establishment of fodder depots at village level for which government is giving 50 percent subsidy with a maximum ceiling of Rs 10 lakh. There is great feasibility of installation of fodder units at village levels in Reasi District.

Dr. Lalit Upadhaya, Scientist KVK Reasi, stressed on rejuvenation and promotion of Silvi- pastoral system and preservation  of fodder of  pasture lands (alpine /sub alpine meadows).

He informed that 15 lakh tons of fodder is consumed by livestock in highland pastures in 8 months and there is an impending need to preserve and protect these pastures.

He stressed on adopting effective strategies to pursue the objectives of   Fodder production, processing and value addition, varietal improvement and crop diversification.

The Officers from allied Departments, including Chief Animal Husbandry Officer and District Sheep Husbandry Officer also put forth their views regarding steps to be taken to meet the increased   fodder demand due to burgeoning bovine and sheep/goat population.

District Agriculture Extension Officer, Rajesh Verma presented vote of thanks to all participants.