Srinagar: Department of Science & Technology conducted awareness programme at DC Office, Budgam, for sensitization of farmers regarding use of Solar Energy for running of irrigation pumps on Wednesday. The programme was conducted under the Chairmanship of Saurabh Bhagat (IAS), Commissioner Secretary to Govt. Science & Technology and DDC Mr faqruddin.The programme was also attended by Addc, Dr. P. R. Dhar, CEO JAKEDA and Smt. Rabia Noor Sr. Technical Officer, JAKEDA, Kashmir, & other officers of the Agency.
During the programme, the farmers were apprised about various benefits/incentives extended by the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy MNRE Gol, under PM- KUSUM Scheme, which is primarily meant for up- liftment of the farmers.
It is worthwhile to mention here that the Ministry provides a subsidy of 50% of the cost of the pump, 30% of the cost is being provided by the Govt. of J&K UT and the beneficiary/farmer has to bear only 20% cost of the pump.
Dr. Nasir Ahmad Shah, Additional Director, J&K Science & Technology Innovation Council also highlighted the role of the department for uplifting the farmer community with the help of Scientific Intervention. During his presentation, he said that farming community of the district Budgam are facing tough times to earn sufficient economic returns with traditional farming and crops. He requested Deputy Commissioner, Budgam to provide (50-100) Kannals ofU T Land in the district for cultivation of Aromatic and Medicinal
Plants viz Lavender, Rose, Salvia etc. which could be cultivated in order to create industrial ecosystem in the district. Also District Level Science Centres will also be established in the district Budgam to create scientific temper among the student community & Masses.
