Bandipora April 16 (KNS): In run up to achieving the milestones for embarking upon the journey of self-sufficiency in Silkworm Seed production and propagation of improved verities of Mulberry Plants in J&K, Ajaz Ahmad Bhat (IAS), Director Sericulture J&K, today undertook a comprehensive visit to various Mulberry Nurseries/ Farms and inspected Silkworm Seed Unit at Vijpara, Hajan of District Bandipora.
The purpose of the visit was to oversee the ongoing up-gradation works which are being executed under Capex Budget at an estimated cost of Rs. 45 lac out of which the funds to the tune of Rs. 36 lac have already been allotted and Rs. 25 lac have been expended for the purpose.
Speaking on the occasion the Director Sericulture J&K said that an extensive area of mulberry nurseries and farms are being revamped for improved verities of Mulberry plantation in the area. The nurseries are currently being utilized for propagation of mulberry plants to yield leaf reserve in abundance for Silkworm rearing and in addition to it more poly house cuttings and root grafts of exotic and improved mulberry varieties are earmarked for next rearing season.
Upon the completion of up-gradation of the Seed Unit, Vijpara, Hajan, Bandipora the production capacity output of the Seed Unit is slated to be estimated at 20000 (DFLs) of Double Hybrid F1 Silkworm Seed which will be distributed among Silkworm Rearers in adjacent villages, thereby significantly bolstering silk production across the region.
Ajaz Ahmad Bhat (IAS), Director Sericulture J&K expressed optimism about the project's prospects while emphasizing its pivotal role in not only elevating the sericulture sector but also empowering local communities through enhanced economic opportunities. In this back drop and while taking stock of the ongoing preparation for ensuing silkworm rearing he exhorted upon the field functionaries of the department to work with dedication and leave no stone unturned for achieving double production of quality Silkworm seed and Cocoons. He further enjoined upon the employees to assist the Silkworm Rearers and Farmers at every stage during silkworm rearing and share their expertise for encouraging them to undertake silkworm rearing in a conducive and disease free environment.
The Director Sericulture J&K while returning from District Bandipora also visited Mulberry Block H.M.T where he issued on spot instructions to the District Sericulture Officer, Srinagar to maintain the block and make pruning to the mulberry plants on war footing basis, besides, ensuring cleanliness and hygiene for revamping the block instantaneously.
The Director Sericulture J&K was accompanied by Development Officer, ISDP Sonawari and other officers of the department.
In addition to above, the Director Sericulture J&K in a condolence meeting held at Directorate of Sericulture Dev. Department J&K, Tulsi Bagh, Srinagar on the sad demise of an employee namely Shri. Bindroo, observed two minutes silence in the memory and honour of the deceased employee and prayed to the Almighty to grant peace to the departed soul and the courage and strength to the bereaved family. Besides, directed the concerned officer to process his documents on priority so that the family of the diseased employee will not suffer more. (KNS)