VC SKUAST-K Chairs Scientific Advisory Committee Meeting of KVK Ganderbal
Ganderbal, June 10 (PTK): Vice Chancellor of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, on Wednesday chaired the 22nd Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) Meeting of Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Ganderbal at the Kendra campus in Shuhama.
The meeting was attended by Director Extension SKUAST-K Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, KVK scientists, district heads of line departments, agri-entrepreneurs and progressive farmers, who deliberated on scientific interventions and future strategies aimed at strengthening the agricultural sector in Ganderbal district.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai highlighted the growing role of KVK Ganderbal in promoting region-specific agricultural innovations and entrepreneurship. During his interaction with progressive farmers and agri-preneurs, he encouraged them to explore opportunities in agriculture, agri-entrepreneurship and post-harvest value addition, stating that the sector offers immense scope for income generation and sustainable growth.
Director Extension, Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, emphasized the need to transform traditional farming into a commercially viable and sustainable enterprise. She urged scientists and extension workers to intensify skill development programmes, promote low-cost organic farming practices and develop specialized training modules aimed at enhancing farmers’ capacities and livelihoods across Jammu and Kashmir.
Earlier, Dr. Ajaz Ahmed Malik, Senior Scientist and Head, KVK Ganderbal, presented a detailed report on the Action Taken Report, Annual Progress Report and newly launched initiatives undertaken by the Kendra during the year.
On the occasion, the Vice Chancellor also inaugurated several newly established facilities at the KVK campus, including a Food Technology Laboratory, High-Density Pear Orchard, Diversified Stone Fruit Block, Cucurbitaceae Crop Cafeteria, and the “Sindh Greens” Urban Kitchen Garden Initiative.
The newly inaugurated facilities are expected to serve as demonstration and training centres for farmers, students and agri-entrepreneurs, promoting scientific farming practices, value addition and sustainable agricultural development in the district.
The meeting concluded with detailed discussions on future programmes, research priorities and extension activities aimed at enhancing farm productivity, promoting innovation and strengthening the agricultural economy of Ganderbal district.(PTK)
