SRINGAR: In order to upscale scientific adoption of cultivation of fodder crops among the farmers of the valley, a Field Day on Forage Crops was organized by Dryland Agriculture Research Station, SKUAST-K in collaboration with ICAR-Indian Grassland & Fodder Research Institute, Jhansi on 17th of June 2021 at Rangreth Srinagar. Around 25 progressive farmers from the Districts of Srinagar and Budgam participated in the day long event. Dr. Sarfaraz A. Wani, Director Research of the varsity was the Chief Guest on the occasion whereas Director Education Prof. M. N. Khan and Registrar SKUAST-K Dr. Gul Zaffar were the guests of honour. At the outset, Dr. N. S. Khuroo, Senior Scientist (Forage scheme) welcomed the dignitaries and the farmers. He then gave a brief report about the fodder research programme running at the Station and the scientific cultivation of fodder oats in Kashmir. Prof. S. A Dar, Incharge of the Station gave the overview of research activities and new technological innovations being contemplated at DARS Rangreth. Director Research Dr. Sarfaraz A Wani in his address underlined the importance of working in collaboration with various stakeholders like progressive farmers to get the technology refined with their feedback. A field visit was also arranged for the farmers in which they were sensitized with the recent technology in fodder production to uplift their livelihood. Dr. Gul Zaffar, while visiting the experiment field, encouraged the farmers to take up scientific cultivation of oats as recommended by the University. He also emphasised on strengthening technology base of the Station with inclusion of newly developed tools.
The Chief Guest then interacted with scientists of the Station and focused on need based market oriented research in field and fodder crops as well as optimal utilization of resources available. He praised the work done by the scientists of the Station. In his brief address, Prof. M. N. Khan stressed upon developing climatic resilient technology for economic prosperity. While concluding the day long visit, the Chief Guest inaugurated the new seed processing unit and gene bank established at the Station under Pulse Seed Hub project. All Covid-19 SOPs were strictly followed during the event. The programme ended with vote of thanks by Dr. Zahida Rashid. Scientist (Agronomy).

KR Desk