Srinagar, March 7 -- Agriculture has long been the quiet backbone of Jammu and Kashmir's economy, often overshadowed by the more visible allure of tourism. Yet, the truth is that the fields, orchards, fisheries, and allied activities form a vast economic network that sustains livelihoods and holds immense potential for transformation. At a time when government employment cannot absorb the aspirations of every young graduate, the call to reimagine agriculture as a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship is both timely and necessary.

The youth of Jammu and Kashmir stand at a crossroads. For decades, traditional farming practices were seen as uncertain, vulnerable to weather disruptions and market challenges. This perception led many to drif...