Beyond Seeking Jobs, Create Them: CM To Youth

(MENAFN- Kashmir Observer) Srinagar- Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday said Jammu and Kashmir is undergoing a transformation - socially, economically, and politically - and called upon the youth to become active agents of change through service, innovation, and leadership.
Speaking at the sixth convocation ceremony of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST)-Kashmir, Omar, who also serves as the university's pro-chancellor, urged the graduating students to help shape a“new story” for the region.
“Help us shape this new story, not through slogans but through service. Not through entitlement, but through excellence. As you rise, let others rise with you. Whether you go to Bengaluru or Berlin, carry J&K in your heart,” he told the graduates.
The event was also attended by Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who joined as the chief guest, and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, the Chancellor of SKUAST-Kashmir.
Omar reminded the students that they were stepping into the world not just with degrees, but as carriers of“hope, resilience and responsibility.” Offering institutional support, he said,“If you have an idea, we'll fund it. If you have a plan, we'll partner with you. If you have the courage, we'll support you.”
He encouraged students to move beyond seeking jobs and instead become job creators, especially in the agriculture and allied sectors.“Build agri-startups, consult farmer groups, privatize extension services. You are uniquely trained to bridge science and society. Stay rooted in your soil,” he advised.
Using the metaphor of a seed, the chief minister called on students to grow with purpose and perseverance.“A seed faces darkness and resistance. Yet it grows into a tree that offers shade, fruit and shelter. Plant yourself in the right place. Water your dreams with effort. The world will benefit from your growth,” he said.
Highlighting the importance of modernizing the agricultural sector, Omar asked:“Can you double the income of our small farmers? Can you design solutions for climate-smart agriculture? Can you build agri-enterprises that generate rural jobs? If yes, know this - you will never walk alone. The Government of Jammu and Kashmir will stand firmly with you.”
He praised SKUAST-Kashmir for its pioneering work in temperate horticulture, sustainable mountain agriculture, organic farming, and livestock research.“This university has not only produced scholars, but also field-level innovators who are solving real problems faced by farmers,” he said.
Stressing that agriculture is both the economic backbone and cultural soul of Jammu and Kashmir, he noted that over 70 percent of the population is directly or indirectly dependent on it.“It is not merely an occupation; it defines our way of life,” he remarked.
The chief minister also underlined the urgency of adapting agriculture to modern challenges such as climate change, land degradation, and market volatility, and stressed the need for tech-driven, innovative solutions.
Omar also expressed pride that a significant majority of this year's gold medals were awarded to girl students.“To the daughters of this land, you are scripting a golden future with your brilliance. May you continue to shine and inspire,” he said, congratulating the students and their families for their dedication and support.
Concluding his address, Abdullah said he was confident that Jammu and Kashmir's youth would lead the region into a future that is“scientific, sustainable, and dignified.”

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