12,500 MT fertilisers dispatched for farmers, SKUAST's poor results

Srinagar, June 12 (UNI) Expressing serious dissatisfaction over the performance of the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agriculture Science and Technology (SKUAST), Agriculture Minister, Abdul Aziz Zargar said the scientists must prove their worth and come up with new and innovated crop increasing methods.

He said nothing concrete has been done by the scientists of the SKUAST in this direction so far.

Their experiments remained confined up to their campus, he said, asking them to work with dedication and suggest measures for development of horticulture and agriculture sectors.

An official spokesman said here today that Mr Zargar also reviewed the stock and supply position of fertilisers in the valley.

He said the officers of horticulture and agriculture departments have been asked to monitor the availability of qualitative pesticides and fertilisers in the market, and check the sale of substandard and unlicensed items by certain vendors.

The Director Enforcement has been asked to carry regular market checks and punish those indulging in selling unlicenced and substandard pesticides and fertilisers.

However, the minister was informed that during current month 12,500 MT of Urea and DAP had been received and dispatched to different Cooperative Marketing Societies (CMS) and other agencies for distribution among the farmers so far.

Apart from this, one rack of 2,500 MT was on way and would reach within a week's time.

Mr Zargar asked the officers to streamline the distribution process and ensure timely and adequate supply of fertiliser to the farmers of the valley.

A committee has been framed to monitor the receipt and dispatch of fertilisers besides checking the sale of unlicenced and substandard supplies in the market.

UNI BAS ASM SG KN1635