J&K announces Rs 129 cr to reduce fodder deficit, boost livestock sector

Jammu and Kashmir administration has announced a Rs 129.05 crore initiative to reduce fodder deficit and boost livestock sector under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) in the union territory, a senior government official said on Friday.

Additional Chief Secretary, Agriculture Production Department, Atal Dulloo said over the years, livestock husbandry has emerged as a crucial growth engine for sustainable and equitable development, which is vital for uplifting the socio-economic status of farming communities in Jammu and Kashmir.

"An apex committee has devised a comprehensive plan under HADP, which amounts to Rs 129.05 crore, to mitigate the fodder shortfall in the UT by 80 per cent. The primary objective of this programme is to augment the agricultural and livestock sectors and equip farmers with vital resources such as financial assistance, improved seeds and technical guidance to amplify productivity, profitability, and overall economic progress of the area," he