J&K moves to check inflow of substandard pesticides
Entry checkpoints to be activated: Javid Dar Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Sept 1: The J&K Government will step up surveillance at entry points to check the inflow of substandard pesticides and agricultural medicines, Agriculture Minister Javid Ahmad Dar said today. Dar...
Entry checkpoints to be activated: Javid Dar
Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Sept 1: The J&K Government will step up surveillance at entry points to check the inflow of substandard pesticides and agricultural medicines, Agriculture Minister Javid Ahmad Dar said today.
Dar said checkpoints would be activated at existing entry points, with enforcement teams and Agriculture Department officials jointly screening agricultural medicines entering J&K.
He said dealers found selling substandard agricultural medicines would face action and urged farmers to report such products to the authorities.
"If we receive information that substandard pesticides are being sold anywhere, we will act," Dar said.
"I request farmers that if any dealer is selling you substandard medicines, inform our officers. We will take action," he added.
The minister said some traders were bringing such products into the market in pursuit of quick profits, putting farmers at risk and undermining the regulated agricultural supply chain.
Dar called upon farmers to remain vigilant and alert officials whenever they come across substandard agricultural medicines in the market.
Earlier in Kupwara, Dar inaugurated a Block Development Council (BDC) building at Kralgund, constructed at a cost of Rs 97 lakh, and stressed accountability and transparency in grassroots development.
Accompanied by Langate MLA Sheikh Khursheed Ahmad, the minister said the building would provide a dedicated platform for the functioning of the BDC and enable people to raise developmental concerns and grievances closer to their homes.
He said strengthening Panchayati Raj institutions was central to the Government's vision of decentralised development, with elected representatives and local communities playing a greater role in identifying priorities, planning works and monitoring implementation.
Dar directed officials to ensure proper utilisation of public funds, adherence to approved norms and specifications, timely completion of works and transparency at every stage of project execution.
"Every rupee of public money must translate into tangible development and public benefit," he said, stressing the need for accountable and accessible government institutions.
He also called for regular field visits, effective grievance redressal and continuous monitoring of ongoing projects to ensure quality and timely delivery of services.
Khursheed Ahmad highlighted the developmental potential of Kupwara, particularly in agriculture, horticulture and rural development, and called for sustained investment to strengthen rural livelihoods and create employment opportunities.
Senior officers of the Rural Development and other concerned departments, besides local residents, were present on the occasion.
