Doda: SKUAST–Jammu and the Department of Agriculture Production & Farmers’ Welfare, Doda organised an awareness programme on the cultivation of Kala Zeera (Black Cumin) at village Gai Dessa.
The initiative witnessed the participation of around 75 progressive farmers from Gai Dessa and nearby areas highlighting the growing interest in premium spice cultivation to boost rural livelihoods.
During the programme, detailed deliberations were held on modern cultivation practices, processing techniques and marketing strategies for Kala Zeera, a region-specific high-value spice naturally growing in the area.
The joint initiative aims to expand organized cultivation of Kala Zeera over 300–500 kanals, enhancing farmers’ income and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in the region.
The programme reflected the concerted efforts of Deputy Commissioner Doda, Harvinder Singh; MD HADP/JKCIP, Sandeep Kumar and the Director of Agriculture, Jammu to strengthen niche crop promotion and provide institutional support to farmers.
The Doda Bhagwah JK Farmers Producers Company (FPO) is leading in efforts to bring Kala Zeera under organized cultivation, ensuring market linkages and quality standards.
The programme was attended by senior agricultural experts including Dr. S.K. Gupta, Director Research, SKUAST–Jammu; Dr. Vishal Gupta, Head, Plant Pathology, SKUAST–Jammu; Susheel Rattan Sharma, Mushroom Development Officer Doda & Nodal Officer HADP/JKCIP; the Agriculture Extension Officer Kastigarh and other field staff.
