• Sinha Chairs high-level meet on SKUAST-Jammu–IFPRI collaboration for agri transformation
• Says “Convergence of HADP, JKCIP, Mission YUVA is must to boost farmer incomes”
• Centre of Excellence for Food Policy, Data Analytics proposed
Jammu: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday chaired two high-level meetings focusing on agricultural transformation and intensifying efforts against drug abuse in Jammu and Kashmir.
In the first meeting, Sinha reviewed a proposed strategic collaboration between SKUAST-Jammu and the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) aimed at strengthening evidence-based policymaking and promoting sustainable agricultural growth in the Union Territory.
Welcoming the collaboration, the Lieutenant Governor said IFPRI’s global expertise would enhance institutional capacities and support data-driven decision-making. The meeting discussed setting up a Centre of Excellence for Food Policy and Data Analytics at SKUAST-Jammu, envisioned as a knowledge hub for continuous monitoring, policy evaluation and research on agricultural transformation, particularly in mountain and high-value production systems.
Experts from IFPRI, including Dr.Shahidur Rashid and Dr. Anjani Kumar, shared insights on institutional and technical interventions required to revitalise agriculture and rural economies in J&K. A detailed presentation highlighted the need for strengthening value chains, improving productivity and ensuring inclusive growth.
The deliberations also emphasized convergence of key initiatives such as HADP, JKCIP and Mission YUVA to enhance farmer incomes, generate employment opportunities and support smallholders, women and youth across the region.
Later, chairing another high-level meeting with senior civil and police officials, the Lieutenant Governor directed adoption of a “zero tolerance” policy against drug abuse in the Union Territory.
He called for a multi-pronged strategy involving strict law enforcement to dismantle trafficking networks, intensified awareness campaigns, and expansion of treatment, counselling and rehabilitation facilities.
“Action against drug abuse must be our top priority. A collective mechanism is needed to safeguard our youth and ensure a healthy future for Jammu and Kashmir,” Sinha said.
He also stressed strengthening grassroots intelligence and ensuring coordinated and stringent action against drug smugglers.
The meeting reviewed preparations for a three-month campaign under the NashaMukt Bharat Abhiyaan, with the Lieutenant Governor urging officials to lead from the front and make it a mass movement involving all sections of society.
