Srinagar, Nov 05 (KNS): Director General, Horticulture Kashmir Ajaz Ahmad Bhat (JKAS) on the instructions of Principal Secretary to Government, Department of Horticulture, J&K, Navin Kumar Chaudhary (IAS), today paid a visit to Ganapora, Balapora area of District Shopain to assess the damage caused to fruit boxes due to fire incident occurred in packing shed of Abdul Razaq Falay. At time of incident approximately 3500 boxes of Apple were stored in the shed and 70% of them were damaged reportedly. 

Director General on the occasion conveyed his sympathies with the grieved orchardist and handed over him a cheque worth Rs. 2.0 lacs Packing Shed and assured him of all possible help.

Director General also visited many orchards and interacted with prominent growers of district Shopian and Pulwama. He advised growers to avail benefits of different Departmental Schemes. He then took review of both the Districts and instructed the field functionaries to give vide publicity to different Departmental Schemes with special focus on newly launched Modified High Density Scheme and Nursery Development Scheme. He further instructed them to make frequent visits to the field and provide the growers with latest technical knowhow. 

He also urged them to conduct awareness camps on routine basis and impart practical training to farmers regarding pruning of fruit plants in the orchards.

Later, the Director General issued appointment orders to 31 newly recruited Gardeners. He welcomed them in the Department and advised them to work with dedication for the welfare of Farming community in general and Department in particularly. (KNS)