Afghan delegation met Minister for Agriculture

SRINAGAR: A delegation from Afghanistan comprising of 25 delegates called on Ghulam Hassan Mir, Minister for Agriculture to discuss various aspects of development of Agriculture and Horticulture in Afghanistan.
The Minister highlighted the old and traditional ties between two countries and informed that Jammu and Kashmir has vast experience in Agriculture and Horticulture sector particularly with regard to cultivation of Apple, Peach, Apricot, Grapes and Saffron from which the people of Afghanistan can benefit.
Mr. Mir hoped that experience gained by the delegates during their visit to the Valley and training organized by SKUAST (K) would go long way in helping them in advancing in Agriculture and Horticulture there. He hoped that such interaction visit would continue in future for betterment of People of Both countries and assured all possible technology and extension support to the delegation.
While interacting with the delegation Minister said that cultivation of cash crops especially saffron was aimed to discourage people of Afghanistan from taking over the cultivation of narcotic crops (Poppy). They said Afghanistan has suffered a lot in Agriculture Sector too during the turmoil.
During their tour to the Valley the delegated informed the Minister that they have visited SKUAST (K), CITH Saffron fields and other Agriculture Research Stations and also interacted with the local farmers of the Valley.
Among others, Director Agriculture Kashmir, Dr. Farooq A. Lone, Joint Director Agriculture Inputs, Mr. Inder Bushan Bhat, Director Research (SKUAST), Dr. Shafiq Ahmad and Professor (SKUAST), Mr. S.A. Nehvi were also present.