Srinagar, July 4 (UNI) Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan today described Kashmir as the 'crown jewel of India' and 'heaven on earth', saying its people are eagerly waiting to welcome fellow countrymen without fear or hesitation.



“I have been in Srinagar since yesterday, among the people, feeling the cool breeze, the earthy fragrance of the soil, and the unmatched warmth of the locals. This land fills the heart with love. Truly, Kashmir is the crown of India and the heaven on earth,” Chouhan told media after attending the sixth convocation ceremony of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST-K), Srinagar, where he was the chief guest.



Chouhan urged people across the country to visit Kashmir.



“I would like to tell my fellow countrymen that the people of this place are waiting for them with a loving heart. Let us come here without any fear, without any hesitation, and let us set a new example of brotherhood and love,” he said.



Emphasising the Centre’s commitment to a prosperous Jammu and Kashmir, the Union Minister highlighted the government’s vision of transforming Jammu and Kashmir into a horticulture hub, especially for apples, almonds, and walnuts.



“We are establishing a state-of-the-art Clean Plant Centre with an investment of Rs 150 crore to ensure disease-free, high-quality planting material. This will allow our farmers to compete globally,” he said.



He added that private nurseries will be supported through subsidies, and a tissue culture lab dedicated to saffron cultivation will also be set up.

“Our goal is to bring world-class technology and support to every farmer in the valley,” the minister said.



Focusing on rural development, Chouhan stressed that no poor person will be left house ledd in in Jammu and Kashmir.

“Under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, a survey of 5 lakh people has been conducted. Eligible beneficiaries will receive housing support after verification,” he assured.



The minister also reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to infrastructure development in the region.

“The Prime Minister has sanctioned road projects worth Rs 4,200 crore to enhance connectivity to remote villages,” he said.



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