Srinagar, Jan 27 (KNS): In order to finalize the modalities in respect of creation of post entry quarantine (PEQ) facilities for import of elite Horticulture plant material and seeds in Advanced Centre for Horticulture Development in Zainapora area of Shopian, Director Horticulture Kashmir Ajaz Ahmad Bhat (KAS), who is also Mission Director, MIDH-J&K Wednesday convened a meeting at Directorate of Horticulture Kashmir.

In a statement issued to the news agency KNS, the spokesperson said that the officers of National Seeds Corporation (NSC) New Delhi including Kuldeep Singh, SGM (Prod.), R.K. Kaswan, DGM (Engg.), Nanu Ram Yadav, RM, Chandigrah, Dr. V.S Pandey, AGM (Prod.), Sh. Anand Rawat, AO (Finance), Chief Horticulture Officer, Srinagar, Scientists from SKUAST-Kashmir, CITH and private entrepreneurs empanelled for establishment of High Density Orchards in J&K, attended the meeting 

Mission Director MIDH, said that growers of J&K have a reason to rejoice as the Government of India has decided to set-up a state-of-the- art Post-Entry Quarantine (PEQ) facility in Kashmir. 

“National Seed Corporation (NSC) in collaboration with Horticulture department would set up a PEQ facility at Advanced Centre for Horticulture Development in Zainapora over an area of 22 hectare (440 Kanals) for import high value Horticulture planting material/seeds.” 

He said the planting material will include latest varieties of almond, walnut etc for production of huge planting material.

During the meeting, action taken report for taking possession of earmarked land at Advanced Centre for Horticulture Development in Zainapora for creation of PEQ facilities for import of elite Horticulture plant material /seeds which was discussed in detail. 

The Government of India has sought assistance from the National Seed Corporation for revamping the horticulture sector of Jammu and Kashmir. “The NSC will import exotic quality plant material from developed countries for its distribution to farmers.”

Mission Director MIDH appraised that since J&K is in urgent need of planting material for establishment of High Density Orchards in UT, this endeavor shall go a long way in the upliftment of economic status of farmers of J&K. (KNS)