Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today said that Jammu and Kashmir are on the path of change – economic, social and politically – and called upon the youth to become an active contribution in this change through service, innovation and leadership.
He was speaking at the 6th convocation of Agricultural Science and Technology (Skuast) -Kashmir at Sher-e-Kashmir University. The event was the chief guest of Central Agricultural and Farmers Welfare, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Shivraj Singh Chauhan, who was the chief guest, Chancellor and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Agriculture, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Javid Dar.
Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Chaudhary, Minister Sekena Itu and Javed Rana, Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, many MLAs, Chief Secretary Atal Dullu, Vice Chancellor Dr. Nazir Ahmed Ganai, faculty members, graduates, parents, parents, parents, parents, parents, parents, parents, parents, and other dignitaries participated.
In his address to the graduates, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who also serves as a supporter-Chancellor of the university, called upon the youth to become a new Jammu and Kashmir architect.
“Help us shaping this new story – not through slogans, but through service. Not through entitlement, but through excellence. As you get up, let others get up with you. Whether you go to Bangalore or Berlin, move to Jammu and Kashmir in your heart.”
He reminded the graduates that they were stepping into the world not only with the degree, but also the carrier of hope, flexibility and responsibility.
“If you have an idea, we will fund it. If you have a plan, we will partner with you. If you have courage, we will support you. Today, the world needs not only your knowledge, but your compassion, your courage and your character.”
He urged graduates to be beyond the demand for jobs – to make them – especially in agriculture and allied fields. He said, “Create agricultural-startups, consult farmer groups, privatize expansion services. You are uniquely trained to bridge science and society. Stay in your soil,” he advised.
Encouraging innovation in agriculture, he asked: “Can you double the income of our small farmers? Can you design a solution for climate-smart agriculture? Can you create agricultural enthusiasts generating rural jobs? If yes, you will never run alone. The government of Jammu and Kashmir will not be standing with you.”
Using the metaphor of a seed, the Chief Minister asked the students to grow with a purpose: “A seed faces dark and resistance. Still it grows in a tree that provides shade, fruits and shelter. Planting itself in the right place. Give your dreams water with water efforts. The world will benefit from your development.”
He praised Skit-K for his leading work in temperate gardening, permanent mountain agriculture, organic farming and livestock research. “This university has not only produced scholars, but also field-level innovators who are solving the real problems faced by the farmers,” he said.
By calling agriculture the backbone of the economy of Jammu and Kashmir and the cultural soul of its people, Omar Abdullah emphasized the role of the region in shaping the identity of the state.
“More than 70 percent of our population is directly or indirectly dependent on agriculture. It is not just a business – it defines our way of life.”
He said that the current agricultural vision of the state takes inspiration from the legacy of Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah on the basis of equity, self -sufficiency and empowerment at the ground level.
The Chief Minister highlighted the immediate need to adapt agriculture to modern challenges. “Tomorrow’s agriculture cannot feed tomorrow’s aspirations,” he said. “Climate change, land fall, and market uncertainties demand new, technical-powered solutions.”
Omar Abdullah announced that the government has launched an overall agricultural development program (HATP), which has an investment of more than ₹ 5,000 crores – which is one of the most ambitious reform initiatives in the history of the state.
“This program integrates governance to convert science, financial inclusion and governance into a high-value, technology-capable and flexible field.”
He said that 29 transformational projects are being rolled out under HATP, including: high density apples and walnut plantations; Modern sheep husband group; Revival of saffron cultivation; Dairy modernization for rural employment and agricultural business and price-series development.
He said, “Our focus is on accurate farming, post -harvest management and using data to increase productivity and market access,” he said, called, graduates to act as bridges between research institutes and agricultural communities.
Prior to his speech, the Chief Minister led a pledge ceremony, where graduates vowed to maintain truth, duty, perseverance and progress.
He was proud that most of the gold medals of this year were given to the students.
“For daughters of this land – you are scripting a golden future with your talent. Can you keep shining and inspired,” he said, students and their families warmly congratulated their sacrifices and support for their sacrifices and support.
The Chief Minister congratulated all graduates, award winners and faculty, expressing confidence that the youth of Jammu and Kashmir will lead the region to a future which is scientific, durable and dignified.
