Building a self-reliant agricultural economy is not merely a policy goal but a necessity for Jammu and Kashmir, where agriculture remains the backbone of economic activity. The recent approval of grants by the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly signals a renewed commitment to transforming the region’s agrarian landscape. With an ambitious target of scaling the sector’s contribution from Rs. 37,559 crore to Rs. 1 lakh crore over the next five years, the government has laid out a roadmap for growth through targeted investments, infrastructural enhancements, and credit accessibility. However, the success of this vision will depend on the effective implementation of policies, ensuring farmer inclusivity, and overcoming structural challenges that have historically impeded progress.
The allocation of substantial funds to key sectors such as agriculture, horticulture, animal husbandry, fisheries, and rural development underscores a multi-pronged strategy to boost productivity, enhance incomes, and generate employment. The High-Density Plantation (HDP) Scheme, one of the flagship initiatives, holds promise in transforming fruit production through modern techniques. By expanding high-density plantations to over 836 hectares and earmarking Rs. 30 crore for further development, the government aims to enhance yield and export potential. With Jammu and Kashmir already contributing 41% of total agricultural revenue through horticulture, this sector remains a pivotal driver of economic growth. However, sustained efforts are required to improve cold storage facilities, expand market linkages, and streamline transportation networks to ensure farmers receive fair prices for their produce. The livestock sector, accounting for 33% of agricultural output, is receiving a much-needed push with the establishment of dairy and sheep development units. The Integrated Dairy Development Scheme and the Integrated Sheep Development Scheme are expected to create thousands of employment opportunities while reducing dependence on imports. The introduction of Embryo Transfer Technology (ETT) and Artificial Insemination (AI) programs will further enhance breed quality and milk production. Yet, challenges persist in terms of fodder availability, veterinary infrastructure, and disease control mechanisms, necessitating continuous government intervention and farmer education. Fisheries, another sector with untapped potential, is witnessing expansion with the establishment of trout units, bio floc systems, and Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) units. With sustainable aquaculture gaining traction, these investments can contribute significantly to rural incomes while ensuring food security. However, the success of fisheries development hinges on providing access to modern equipment, training, and institutional support to farmers willing to diversify into this sector. A major bottleneck in agricultural growth has been water management, and the government’s focus on irrigation infrastructure is a welcome move. The District Irrigation Plan, targeting 4.15 lakh hectares, has already covered a substantial portion, with further expansion underway. Investments in borewells, drip irrigation, and sprinkler systems will not only enhance efficiency but also mitigate the impact of erratic weather patterns. The need for climate-resilient agriculture has never been greater, and the introduction of the Restructured Weather-Based Crop Insurance Scheme (RWBCIS) in 2025-26 is a step in the right direction. Ensuring widespread awareness and accessibility of this scheme will be crucial in safeguarding farmers against unpredictable losses. Access to credit remains one of the key determinants of agricultural growth, and Jammu and Kashmir’s initiatives under the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme are commendable. With over 10.82 lakh active KCC accounts and a low NPA ratio, the region has demonstrated financial discipline in the agrarian sector. The government’s target of issuing an additional one lakh KCCs for crops and two lakh for animal husbandry in the next financial year will inject fresh capital into farming activities. However, small and marginal farmers often struggle with bureaucratic hurdles and collateral requirements, necessitating simplified processes and greater financial literacy campaigns. Infrastructure development, particularly in the agricultural supply chain, is crucial for maximizing the benefits of increased production. The integration of 17 out of 19 wholesale mandis with the e-NAM platform has facilitated digital trading, enabling farmers to access wider markets. The volume of agricultural produce traded through e-NAM has risen significantly, reflecting the growing acceptance of digital transactions. Yet, more needs to be done to connect remote farmers with online markets, improve logistics, and ensure the availability of storage and processing units to prevent post-harvest losses. The holistic approach to agricultural transformation is further evident in the government’s focus on skill development and entrepreneurship. Plans to generate 18,000 new enterprises and create 2.8 lakh jobs in the sector indicate a shift from subsistence farming to agribusiness. The emphasis on training 2.5 lakh agripreneurs will equip the rural workforce with the necessary skills to engage in value addition, agro-processing, and modern farming techniques. However, the success of these initiatives will be determined by the quality of training, availability of financial support, and ease of doing business for emerging enterprises. Despite the promising trajectory, several challenges need immediate attention to realize the vision of a Rs. 1 lakh crore agricultural economy. Land fragmentation remains a persistent issue, making mechanization and large-scale farming difficult. Addressing this will require policy interventions such as land consolidation schemes, cooperative farming models, and technological solutions for precision agriculture. Additionally, climate change poses a serious threat, with erratic rainfall, temperature fluctuations, and declining soil health affecting productivity. Strengthening research institutions and promoting climate-smart agriculture will be vital in mitigating these risks. The role of the private sector cannot be overlooked in this transformation. Encouraging investment in agro-processing units, cold storage chains, and farm mechanization will provide a much-needed impetus to agricultural growth. Public-private partnerships can drive innovation, improve efficiency, and create market-driven solutions for farmers. Moreover, fostering stronger ties with national and international markets will open new avenues for exports, ensuring that Jammu and Kashmir’s high-value crops, dairy products, and fishery resources reach a global audience.
As the government embarks on this ambitious journey, it must remain cognizant of the challenges that lie ahead. Ensuring the timely disbursement of funds, monitoring project implementations, and maintaining transparency in financial allocations will be critical for success. A robust feedback mechanism, where farmers and stakeholders actively participate in policy evaluation, will further strengthen governance and accountability. Jammu and Kashmir stand at a crucial juncture where strategic planning and decisive action can reshape its agricultural economy. The passage of these legislative grants is an encouraging step, but their real impact will be measured by tangible improvements in farmer incomes, rural employment, and overall economic resilience. With the right blend of policy support, technological advancements, and grassroots participation, the vision of a self-reliant, Rs. 1 lakh crore agricultural economy can become a reality.
-The Editorial Board