J&K Government Signs MoU  With New Zealand Firm to Revamp Sheep Farming Sector

On Thursday, the Jammu and Kashmir government signed an MoU with New Zealand G2G, a public sector firm, to change the sheep farming industry in the Union Territory, and also inaugurated a rural homestay initiative in conjunction with Oyo Rooms. 

Manoj Sinha, the Lieutenant Governor of J&K, signed an MoU with New Zealand G2G with the overriding goal of improving farmer remuneration, knowledge transfer in research and development, as well as marketing and value addition of J&K sheep commodities. 

"We ascribe special values to our links not only because of strong bonding and cultural affinities, and also because of a mature knowledge of our strategic convergences, interests around the world, and economic potential," Sinha added. 

According to a 2020 research paper, the livestock industry in J&K produces about 25% of the overall value of output in the agricultural, fishery, and forestry sectors. The livestock industry generates 4.11 percent of J&K's GDP and 25.6 percent of total Agriculture GDP, according to the report. According to another government document, residents in Kashmir consume six crore kgs of meat each year, with 3.5 crore kgs coming from outside of the nation. 

He said that this year marks the 70th anniversary of the two countries' establishment of bilateral ties. "It allows us to enhance our partnership and our desire to build a strong foundation for a long-term, mutually reinforcing economic relationship," Sinha said. 

Meanwhile, the J&K government announced the launch of 'Crown of Incredible India,' a rural homestay project in collaboration with the travel-tech platform OYO Rooms, which they claim will motivate micro-entrepreneurs in villages, reinvigorate local art and crafts and assist in the revitalization of rural areas. 

"Undoubtedly, nature has given J&K with outstanding scenic beauty, and rural homestays will offer a piece of everlasting culture, cuisine, and customs to domestic and foreign visitors, in addition to the warmth and kind hospitality of J&K UT" Around 200 house stays would be accessible on the OYO platform by December this year," Sinha was quoted as saying. 

The J&K government announced that under the 'Mission Youth' initiative, 500 young people will be supported in setting up homestays, with each homestay receiving Rs. 50,000 in financial aid for renovation. Officials stated the project will contribute to the development of world-class tourist infrastructure in rural J&K. 

"Atma Nirbhar Bharat's vision will be realized through this new initiative, which will empower local communities, youth, and women." Individuals and businesses will contribute to poverty reduction and long-term development through the "voice for local products", according to Sinha.