Srinagar, Feb 15 (KNS): A one day workshop-cum-awareness program on agricultural land conversion for non agriculture use – 'its catastrophic effects on our sustenance" was organized by Joint Directorate of Agriculture Extension, Agriculture Production and Farmers Welfare Department Kashmir at Agriculture Complex Lalmandi, Srinagar.
In a statement issued to news agency KNS, official spokesperson said that the event was inaugurated by Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Shahid Iqbal Chowdhary.
During the inaugural address Shahid Iqbal Chowdhary said large scale conversion of agriculture land into non-agricultural use shall create an imbalance in the eco system as the change in land pattern would be the greatest concern to our food security and economic sustainability in this part of temperate region which otherwise has the potential to be world leader because of its unique identity in agricultural products.
He said that change in land use pattern has arguably being the most pervasive socio-economic source which has caused imbalance in the system.
He said it is the biggest challenge that not only our nation but also the whole world is presently facing and needs immediate redressal so that there is a balance between modernization i.e urbanization and industrial growth viz-a-viz assured food security.
Shahid Choudhary said that the Divisional Administration will always provide a helping hand to the Department of Agriculture and other concerned departments on board to tighten the nose around those violating the laws governing the prevention of conversion of agriculture land into non agricultural use.
Director Agriculture Kashmir Chowdhary Mohammad Iqbal during his lecture said the mankind is facing the threats simultaneously on conversion of agricultural land to non agriculture purpose and drastic reduction in dense forest cover.
He said we need to conserve our agricultural land not only for the production of food but to maintain a balance in the eco system.
Chowdhary Iqbal said it is the prime responsibility of every conscious citizen of the nation to conserve the land resources for sustenance, not only for our present generation but for our future generations as well.
Chief Engineer Irrigation and Flood Control Iftikhar Ahmad Kakroo while delivering his lecture said that his Department is taking all steps for providing irrigation to cultivable land.
He also stated that they have already started a drive to remove encroachments from banks of flood channels and rivers for conserving the water bodies
Joint Director Agriculture Extension Mohammad Muzaffer Hurra while elaborating the need to curb the menace of land conversion presented a detailed power point presentation.
He said that such type of training programs / workshops will act as a catalyst in educating the officers and other stakeholders about land conversion.
During the day long program Joint Director Apiculture and Mushroom Development Kashmir Farooq Ahmad Shah, Chief Agriculture Officer Anantnag Dr. Waseem Ahmad Shah, Floriculturist Fida Iqbal, and Mohammad Munaf District Agriculture Officer Pulwama gave a detailed power point presentation regarding land conversion to the participating officers.
Director Agriculture Kashmir Chowdhary Mohammad Iqbal, Chief Engineer Irrigation and Flood Control Iftikhar Ahmad Kakroo besides senior officers of Agriculture other concerned departments also attended the workshop. (KNS)