Ajaz Ahmad Bhat Director of Sericulture J&K Boosts Sericulture Development in J&K with Key Initiatives and Inter-State Cooperation

Sericulture J&K

Ajaz Ahmad Bhat, IAS, Director of Sericulture J&K, recently embarked on an extensive tour of the Jammu Division. His visit aimed to foster cooperation for the growth of the silk industry and to review developmental works, including the upgradation and construction of departmental infrastructure and arrangements for the upcoming mulberry plantation season.

During the tour, the Director engaged in detailed interactions with silkworm rearers, officers, and field functionaries of the department. At the Sericulture Office in Ramban, he closely examined ongoing activities and inaugurated the distribution of mulberry plants among silkworm rearers and farmers at the Ramban Mulberry Nursery. This initiative reinforced the department’s commitment to empowering local farming communities.

Emphasizing the importance of maintaining quality in mulberry saplings and ensuring their timely distribution, Bhat highlighted the need to maximize productivity. While inspecting developmental works in District Ramban, he interacted with the District Sericulture Officer and other departmental employees. He issued on-the-spot directions to work on a mission mode to achieve the targets outlined under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) and other ongoing schemes.

Bhat stressed innovation and dedication as key to the department’s success, urging a focus on doubling cocoon production and enhancing farmer engagement. In a significant step towards promoting inter-state cooperation, he facilitated the supply of 30,000 high-quality S146 mulberry saplings to the Department of Sericulture in Himachal Pradesh. This initiative aims to strengthen sericulture across India and underscores J&K’s leadership in providing quality resources for the silk industry nationwide.

Marking the spirit of unity and patriotism, the Directorate of Sericulture Development Department, J&K, has adorned its offices in Srinagar, Jammu, and other districts with vibrant tricolor lights. On January 26, 2025, the National Flag will be ceremonially unfurled at the Directorate offices in Srinagar and Jammu, symbolizing the department’s dedication to nation-building and community service.

Ajaz Ahmad Bhat’s visit and initiatives reflect his unwavering commitment to revitalizing the sericulture sector in J&K. His focus on achieving tangible outcomes through collaborative efforts and farmer-centric policies continues to pave the way for sustainable growth and prosperity in the silk industry.

Ajaz Ahmad Bhat, IAS Director Sericulture J&K Reviews Progress of Ongoing Works in Jammu Division

Ajaz Ahmad Bhat, IAS, Director Sericulture J&K, today conducted an extensive inspection of the ongoing works in Jammu Division. Mr.Bhat also held a detailed review meeting at the Directorate Office, Jammu to assess the progress of various developmental initiatives in the Jammu Division.

During the review, Mr.Bhat stressed the importance of efficiently utilizing funds under key schemes such as the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), CAPEX, and Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS), including the “SILK SAMAGRA” initiative. He urged the officers to ensure the swift execution of projects and the achievement of targets within the shortest possible time.

A key focus of the meeting was on expanding the area under mulberry plantation and boosting seed production at the departmental level. Mr.Bhat emphasized the need for concerted efforts to support farmers in rearing silkworms, enhancing the quality of cocoon production, and ultimately increasing farmers’ income.

District officers presented their progress reports, detailing the various annual developmental activities under Capex, CSS (SILK SAMAGRA), and HADP.The achievements in each district were highlighted with the officers providing updates on their respective targets.

In the concluding session of the meeting Mr.Bhat called for a proactive and sustained effort by all officers, urging them to adopt a hands-on approach by increasing field visits and engaging with farmers regularly. He stressed the importance of obtaining first-hand information on the issues faced by farmers and addressing their concerns promptly. Furthermore, he directed that staff work in a mission-oriented manner, with clear accountability for their assigned duties, to ensure the comprehensive development of Sericulture in the region.

The meeting was attended by the Additional Director Jammu, officers from Jammu Division, and the ICs of Seed Stations from the region. All participants were encouraged to work collaboratively towards fulfilling the long-term vision of the department and improving the livelihoods of farmers engaged in sericulture. (KNS