Srinagar, Dec 31 :
Jammu and Kashmir Agriculture Minister Javed Ahmad Dar on Wednesday clarified that the government does not have any general policy for the re-engagement of retired employees, asserting that such decisions are taken only in exceptional circumstances where specialised expertise is critically required.
Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Minister as per news agency Kashmir News Corner — KNC, said that no retired official has been re-engaged so far.
“There is no blanket order for re-engagements. Extensions can be considered only in rare cases where specific expertise is indispensable or where departmental improvement genuinely demands it. As of now, no such extension has been approved,” Dar said.
He emphasised that the administration remains committed to institutional strengthening, efficiency and transparency, and ruled out routine re-appointments of retired officials as a practice.
Commenting on issues faced by the agriculture and horticulture sectors, Dar said reforms in agriculture are a continuous process rather than an annual exercise, stressing the need for modernisation, data-based planning and sustained policy innovation to strengthen allied sectors.
Addressing concerns raised by apple growers over losses, the Minister said the transition from traditional orchards to high-density apple plantations is necessary to enhance productivity and ensure early economic returns. However, he acknowledged complaints regarding the supply of substandard plant material.
“A committee headed by the Director Horticulture Kashmir has been constituted to look into the matter. Once its report is submitted, appropriate corrective steps will be taken. The government is strictly adhering to SOPs and plant health inspection norms prescribed by the Union Agriculture Ministry,” he added. (KNC)