Tuesday, 02 January 2024 12:17 GMT

India-Pakistan Thaw: Farming Resumes After 12 Yrs Near Zero Line


(MENAFN- Kashmir Observer) Srinagar- For the first time in 12 years, farming has resumed near the zero line on the India-Pakistan international border in Samba.

Years of fear stemming from frequent firing from Pakistan had forced farmers to abandon their fields along the border. As a result, 800 kanals of fertile land became barren. However, with the renewed efforts of the Border Security Force (BSF), 500 kanals have been leveled and made suitable for cultivation, with ongoing efforts to prepare the remaining 300 kanals.

ADVERTISEMENT

Reports inform that Agriculture Department officials visited the site to distribute free seeds to farmers, encouraging them to resume farming activities. Previously, crops such as wheat and sesame were grown in these areas. BSF personnel, who monitor the border, provided security and assistance, helping farmers plow their land safely.

Farmers said that there was a time when the land beyond the fencing was left uncultivated due to the constant threat from Pakistani Rangers. The fear, they said, of being shot at while working in the fields led many farmers to abandon their land, rendering it barren.

Officials emphasized that the resumption of farming would bolster the local economy and empower farmers. They noted that the ceasefire agreement and proactive measures by the district administration have created a conducive environment for agriculture. Farmers now feel secure enough to return to their fields. With encouragement and support from the district administration and security forces, farmers are regaining confidence. The construction of a dam on the zero line has further enhanced their sense of security. The district administration's directive has led to an organized effort to contact farmers and promote urad cultivation. Seeds have been provided, and sowing has commenced on the reclaimed 500 kanals of land

Read Also J&K LG Asks Edu Institutions To Take Innovative Approach In Farming Trout Farmers Given Fish Farming Inputs

Follow this link to join our WhatsApp group : Join Now

Be Part of Quality Journalism

Quality journalism takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce and despite all the hardships we still do it. Our reporters and editors are working overtime in Kashmir and beyond to cover what you care about, break big stories, and expose injustices that can change lives. Today more people are reading Kashmir Observer than ever, but only a handful are paying while advertising revenues are falling fast.

ACT NOW
MONTHLY Rs 100
YEARLY Rs 1000
LIFETIME Rs 10000

CLICK FOR DETAILS

MENAFN09072024000215011059ID1108425017


Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.