Ganderbal: A Mega Awareness cum Technology Demonstration Programme was conducted today at Government Degree College on “Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) and Innovative Approaches for Production and Processing of Agri-Enterprises” held by KVK Ganderbal, SKUAST-Kashmir under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) Project.
The programme was presided over by the District Development Commissioner (DDC), Ganderbal, Shyambir as Chief Guest and co-chaired by Director Extension SKUAST-K, Prof. Dil Mohammad Makhdoomi.
The dignitaries initially visited technology demonstration stalls showcasing the latest technologies, varieties, hybrid seeds and value-added products developed by the University, KVK Ganderbal entrepreneurs, startups, and NRLM. A large number of stalls were set up by line departments, progressive farmers and entrepreneurs of District Ganderbal.
In his presidential address, the DDC appreciated the relentless efforts of KVK Ganderbal in conducting such events from time to time and reaching out to farmers across the District.
He further encouraged the farmers for adopting good and ethical practices in Agriculture, for preserving the brand name of Kashmiri products which are in huge demand across the World.
Shyambir motivated farmers to take up entrepreneurial ventures and ensured full support and cooperation to them.
In his keynote address, Director Extension highlighted the aims and objectives of HADP. He revealed that if followed in letter and spirit, such approaches will change the face of agriculture and allied sectors in the District. Prof. Makhdoomi also appreciated the efforts of the KVK in dissemination of knowledge from lab to land.
Prof. Masood Salim Mir, PI HADP presented a brief overview of the conceptualization and framing of HADP Project. He further stressed on adoption of Innovative Extension approaches in agricultural production and processing of agri-enterprises.
Dr. Ishfaq Abidi, Senior Scientist and Head, KVK Ganderbal gave a comprehensive overview of the innovative extension approaches and roadmap of HADP and revealed that HADP aims to revolutionize agriculture and allied sectors in Jammu & Kashmir by taking all stakeholders on board.
He revealed that Good Agricultural Practices addresses economic, environmental and social sustainability of farming operations. Dr. Abidi further appraised the gathering about the ongoing programmes of the Kendra which are focused on outcome-based skill and entrepreneurship development, fodder resource development, nutrition of women and children, organic farming, climate resilient agriculture and drone technology and expressed hope of better participation of stakeholders in these programmes.
Prof. Azra Kamili from Central University gave a comprehensive overview about entrepreneurship and startups in enterprise development.
In the second session, Scientists of the KVK viz. Dr. Shafat A. Banday, Dr. Eajaz A. Dar and Dr. Shaheen Farooq detailed lectures regarding innovative approaches and recent advances in their respective fields.
The programme witnessed participation of Scientists, Professors, Research scholars, Chief Agriculture/Horticulture Officers, District Sheep Husbandry Officer, Assistant Director Fisheries, Principal GDC Ganderbal, farmers, entrepreneurs, farm women, local leaders and students.
On the occasion, the DDC was felicitated on behalf of KVK Ganderbal & SKUAST-K by Director Extension for his people friendly approach, relentless contribution and untiring efforts for the development of the district along with Director Extension SKUAST-K and PI HADP for their massive contribution in their respective fields.
Dr. Ishfaq Abidi was also felicitated for his efforts and contribution as Head KVK Ganderbal in ushering a new wave of agriculture development in the District. Champion farmers of the District were appreciated by DDC for significant achievements in their fields.
