Mir Aatif
Gurez, Oct 27 (KINS): The Agriculture Production and Farmers Welfare Department, Sub-Division Gurez, has organised a two-day exposure visit for local farmers to Nunur Lavender Park in Ganderbal to familiarise them with the cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants and explore opportunities for agricultural diversification.
The visit, scheduled for October 27 and 28, is being conducted under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) for the financial year 2026–27.
Naib Tehsildar Gurez Irshad Ahmad flagged off the group of farmers. Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) Agriculture Gurez Sanjay and other zonal officers were also present on the occasion.
The exposure visit aims to provide farmers with practical knowledge of lavender cultivation and other medicinal and aromatic plants, highlighting their potential to enhance farm income and generate additional livelihood opportunities.
During the visit, participating farmers will learn about lavender cultivation practices and explore the feasibility of introducing high-value aromatic crops in Gurez. The initiative is expected to help farmers identify suitable alternatives to traditional agricultural practices and diversify their sources of income.
The programme is part of the department’s broader efforts to promote crop diversification, encourage the adoption of improved agricultural practices and strengthen the rural economy.
The exposure visit has been organised by the Sub-Divisional Agriculture Office, Gurez, with the support of the Chief Agriculture Officer, Bandipora.
The department expects the initiative to equip farmers with practical knowledge and help them assess the potential of medicinal and aromatic plant cultivation as an additional source of income.(KINS)

