CM Omar Abdullah Inaugurates Jashn-e-Aamad-e-Bahar in Anantnag, Reaffirms Commitment to Agri Growth
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday inaugurated Jashn-e-Aamad-e-Bahar, the Spring Festival, at Jablipora in South Kashmir’s Anantnag district, reiterating his government’s commitment to strengthening rural livelihoods, enhancing farmer incomes and building a sustainable, self-reliant agricultural economy in Jammu and Kashmir.
Held on the occasion of Baisakhi, the event was organised by the Agriculture Production Department to promote agro-tourism and showcase the region’s rich horticultural and agricultural potential.
Addressing a large gathering, the Chief Minister described spring as a symbol of renewal and hope, saying the festival marks not only a seasonal transition but also a new phase of development and governance in Jammu and Kashmir.
“Spring signifies a new beginning for us. This celebration reflects not only the arrival of a new season but also a renewed path of progress and development in Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister inaugurated a ₹4.3 crore Fruit and Vegetable Processing Centreand distributed subsidy support among progressive farmers, underlining the government’s focus on value addition, market expansion and income enhancement in the agriculture and horticulture sectors.
Highlighting recent welfare initiatives, Omar Abdullah referred to free LPG cylinder support for economically weaker households and free electricity benefits under the Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. He also reiterated the government’s decision to facilitate the establishment of private universities in Jammu and Kashmir to improve access to quality higher education within the Union Territory.
The Chief Minister said South Kashmir possesses immense potential in agriculture, horticulture and tourism due to its fertile land, favourable climate and scenic landscapes, adding that the region can emerge as a major agro-tourism destination.
He further said the government is committed to strengthening the dairy sector under the White Revolution initiative by improving milk processing infrastructure, veterinary support and market linkages.
During the event, assurances were also made regarding the upgradation of the local Fruit and Vegetable Mandi into an international-standard trading hub, with pending land expansion and infrastructure issues promised to be addressed.
The event was attended by Minister for Health and Medical Education, Higher Education and Social Welfare, Sakeena Masood Itoo; Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Cooperatives and Elections, Javid Ahmad Dar; Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani; Director Agriculture Kashmir, Sartaj Ahmad Shah; Deputy Commissioner Anantnag, Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat; MLA Srigufwara-Bijbehara, Bashir Ahmad Shah Veeri, besides other legislators, senior officers and officials.
