Srinagar, Jan 21 ( KNS): Horticulture Department Kashmir has distributed 4 lakh plants of different varieties and out of which 60,000 have been distributed in Srinagar district only under Backyard Horticulture Scheme.

Director Horticulture Kashmir Ajaz Ahmed Bhat said these plants were distributed on 90% subsidy to the citizens at Fruit Plant Nursery Zakura Srinagar.

During the visit to the nursery, he directed Chief Horticulture officers of  the Kashmir Division to ensure wild publicity of the scheme through  electronic and print media so that people can avail the benefits of the  scheme.

During the distribution of the plants,  Director Horticulture assured the farmers that the department will provide technical as well as financial support under various developmental programmes and schemes to boost the sector.

 The Director briefed growers about the benefits under the newly  launched Schemes viz. "Operation Greens- Top to Total" and PM  Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PM FME) as a part of  ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan'.

The Director said that horticulture play a vital role in the economy  of Jammu and Kashmir, generating employment avenues in allied sectors  like fertilizers, pesticides, machinery, post-harvest management,  marketing, transportation and, irrigation infrastructure.  He also asked the officers to keep watch on encroachment of  government assets (if any) and take immediate action warranted under  rules against encroachers.

 In view of inclement weather, Director instructed all the staff to  remain prepared for meeting any eventuality.

He also advised orchardists  to clear water channels/drains to ensure complete drainage from the  orchards and shake trees gently to remove snow immediately from their branches and crotches.(KNS)