The Department of Agriculture, Jammu, celebrated World Soil Day 2024 with great enthusiasm at the Conference Hall of Krishi Bhawan, Talab Tillo. The program was graced by Director Agriculture Jammu, Arvinder Singh Reen, who, in his inaugural address, highlighted the theme of World Soil Day 2024 “Measure, Monitor and Manage” and the significance of healthy soil as the foundation for a robust agricultural system.
He stressed the importance of adopting modern soil health management practices to ensure long-term agricultural sustainability and food security. He reiterated the department’s commitment to empowering farmers with the tools and knowledge required for sustainable soil management and urged everyone to take proactive steps toward protecting this invaluable resource.
Joint Director Agriculture Extension and SLUB Jammu, Satish Sharma, in his keynote address, emphasized the need for raising awareness among farmers about soil health management techniques. He also shared insights on the implementation of government schemes aimed at enhancing soil fertility and youth as entrepreneurs.
The event witnessed active participation from a diverse group of stakeholders, including Divisional Soil Survey Officer, Jammu; Agriculture Chemist, Jammu; sectoral heads from various departments and most importantly farmers, who are the primary custodians of soil health and concerned literature was also distributed on the occasion.
Divisional Soil Survey Officer, Jammu Suresh Kumar Khajuria gave a detailed presentation on capacity building programmes for farmers being executed in all the 10 districts of Jammu Division by Divisional Soil Survey Scheme, Jammu.
Technical sessions were conducted by Agriculture Chemist Aman Jyoti Sharma, ASSO Dr Aadil Rashid, Agriculture Soil Chemist Dr Neeraj Rajwal where experts discussed topics such as soil testing, the use of organic inputs, balanced fertilization, and sustainable agricultural practices.
The interactive sessions allowed farmers to voice their concerns and share their on-ground experiences regarding soil health management. Rajeev Katoch, Programme Officer from Office of the Joint Director Agriculture (Extension) Jammu, conducted the proceedings of the programme. The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Neetu Gurmeet Singh.