The Exhibition-cum-Kissan Mela 2026–27 was organised by the Agriculture Department at the Tourist Dak Bungalow Complex, Drass, on August 22 to promote modern agricultural practices, organic farming, local production and sustainable livelihood opportunities.

The event brought together farmers, government officials, elected representatives, Self Help Groups and other stakeholders to showcase agricultural innovations and create awareness about government schemes and interventions.

Deputy Commissioner Drass, Imteeaz Kacho (JKAS), was the Chief Guest. The event was attended by Superintendent of Police Ishtyaq Kacho (JKPS); Chief Agriculture Officer, Kargil, Ashiq Hussain Basharat; Chief Horticulture Officer, Kargil, Ali Raza; Deputy Director Agriculture Mohammad Iqbal; LAHDC Councillors Abdul Samad and Abdul Wahid; officials, progressive farmers, Self Help Groups and other stakeholders.

Various stalls showcased agricultural produce, traditional and modern farming tools, seeds, greenhouse concepts, kitchen gardening techniques, solar-based equipment and other agricultural interventions. Farmers were also provided information on government schemes, improved farming practices and modern technologies aimed at enhancing productivity and increasing their incomes.

Addressing the gathering, Deputy Commissioner Imteeaz Kacho appreciated the Agriculture Department for organising the event and highlighted the vast agricultural potential of Drass. He emphasised the need for effective water management, stating that available water resources must be scientifically and efficiently utilised to expand agricultural activities.

He called for optimum utilisation of cultivable land and encouraged farmers to convert unused and underutilised land into productive agricultural assets. He said that with sustained efforts, innovation and institutional support, Drass has the potential to emerge as an important agricultural hub.

The DC encouraged farmers to focus on organic farming, quality seed production, vegetable and pea cultivation, fruit production and other crops suited to the region’s climatic conditions.

He also stressed the importance of promoting progressive farmers and young agricultural entrepreneurs, saying greater youth participation could bring new ideas, technology and entrepreneurship into the sector. He called for increased participation of women farmers and Self Help Groups, particularly in value addition, processing and local agricultural enterprises.

Highlighting the importance of market linkages, Kacho stressed the need to connect local producers with institutional consumers, including the Army, to provide farmers with reliable markets and sustainable income opportunities.

The DC further called for strengthening local production to reduce dependence on agricultural commodities brought from outside the region. He said agriculture, horticulture and allied sectors could play a significant role in improving livelihoods while ensuring the availability of fresh, nutritious and locally produced food.

He also emphasised the need to promote milk and dairy production in Drass and encouraged farmers to explore allied activities to diversify their income sources and strengthen the rural economy.

Farmers were urged to remain committed to their land, adopt scientific and sustainable agricultural practices, explore new opportunities and make full use of the schemes, subsidies and technical assistance provided by the Agriculture Department.

Addressing the gathering, Councillor Ranbirpora thanked the Agriculture Department for organising the event and said such exhibitions provide farmers with valuable information and new ideas. He encouraged people to make productive use of available land instead of limiting agriculture to kitchen gardens and urged farmers to adopt greenhouse technology and combine traditional knowledge with modern scientific practices.

Councillor Bhimbat highlighted the growing agricultural potential of Drass and said various vegetable varieties are now being successfully cultivated in the region. He stressed the need to develop new agricultural land, strengthen irrigation facilities, promote greenhouse farming and kitchen gardening, and improve access to subsidised agricultural and solar equipment.

He also called for greater focus on local products, including the cultivation and protection of Drass zeera, mushroom cultivation and other high-value crops, saying these could help agriculture emerge as a stronger source of livelihood for local communities.

Deputy Director, Agriculture Department acknowledged the contribution of farmers, elected representatives, officials, Self Help Groups and other stakeholders in making the Exhibition-cum-Kissan Mela a success.