Paddy blast a concern, Maize production per hectare increased in J

Srinagar, Sep 18 (UNI) Expressing concern over the re-appearance of paddy blast in some areas of the Kashmir valley, the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agriculture Science Technology (SKUAST) stressed the need for seed treatments and other strategies to check it.

However, the SKUAST expressed satisfaction over the maize production in the State which has increased from 1.9 tonnes to around 25 tonnes per hectare.

To check re-appearance of blast as detected in some areas of the valley, the SKUAST stressed for seed treatments and other strategies, officials said here.

They said as a result of adoption of scientific methods, the maize production in state has increased from 1.9 tonnes to around 25 tonnes per hectare.

Double cropping of foodgrains, especially wheat and rice rotation conducted by SKUAST has shown encouraging results and timely efforts of agriculture department to hold awareness camps have yielded good results.

They said food security for the valley districts was not a distant dream but a near reality and the agriculture sector is fast emerging as a viable sector in the state.

The official said it was decided that the publication of instructions and other materials for awareness of growers and farmers in Urdu language would be ensured.

UNI BAS SG AS1452