RAMBAN, MARCH 30: Deputy Commissioner Ramban Mohammad Alyas Khan today presided over a one-day sensitization workshop on Gender Targeting and Inclusion held in the Conference Hall.
The Workshop, hosted under the aegis of the Jammu and Kashmir Competitiveness Improvement of Agriculture and Allied Sectors Project (JKCIP), witnessed enthusiastic participation from approximately 150 women farmers hailing different parts of the district.
The primary objective of the workshop was to promote gender inclusivity and empower women farmers by integrating them into the mainstream agricultural economy. The programme focused on creating awareness about various livelihood opportunities, government schemes and institutional support available under JKCIP.
Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner highlighted the pivotal role of women in strengthening the agricultural sector. He emphasized that empowering women farmers is key to achieving sustainable agricultural growth and improving rural livelihoods. He urged the participants to actively avail the benefits of various schemes under JKCIP and adopt modern agricultural practices to enhance productivity and income.
The DC also encouraged women entrepreneurs to apply online under the scheme and take full advantage of the financial and technical support being provided.
In his address, Chief Agriculture Officer Dr. Vinay Kumar Jandial elaborated on the special provisions under JKCIP aimed at women empowerment. He informed that the scheme ensures a significant 47% reservation for women beneficiaries, reflecting the government’s commitment to gender equity. He further highlighted that 50% subsidy is provided on several high-impact interventions designed to promote income generation and entrepreneurship among farmers.
The CAO detailed key components of the scheme, including Construction of Water Harvesting Tanks to improve irrigation facilities, cultivation of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants for high-value returns, establishment of Mushroom Sheds for additional income generation, promotion of Apiculture (Beekeeping) to support allied agricultural activities, encouragement of Commercial Vegetable Farming to enhance market-oriented production
The workshop concluded with an interactive session, where subject matter specialists and technical experts addressed queries raised by the participants. The session provided practical insights and guidance, motivating women farmers to adopt innovative practices and come forward as self-reliant entrepreneurs.
