Srinagar: Three days National Conference on “Managing Weather and Climate Risks in Agriculture-Adapting Crops to Increased Climate Variability and Uncertainty” concluded in Srinagar today with welcome address by Prof. Raihana H. Kanth, Organizing Secretary of the conference. The conference was inaugurated by Mr. Rajiv Rai Bhatnagar, Advisor to Hon’ble Lt. Governor, J&K on 24 March 2022. The conference was organized by SKUAST-K in collaboration with Association of Agrometeorologists, Anand, Gujarat, Kashmir Chapter. The conference was attended by about 300 delegates involved presentation of more than 17 lead speakers and about 184 research papers in the oral/poster sessions by scientists from all over the country. Prof. Vyas Pandey, President, Association of Agrometeorologists, Anand, Gujarat presented the significant recommendations formulated during the conference that include (1) To strengthen the manual as well as automatic weather observation network system at sub-district level. (2) A free access and sharing of agrometeorological data of ISRO & Agromet with researchers and extension functionaries (3) To develop human resource on climate change and agrometeorology (4)To establish the division of agrometeorology at each state agricultural university of the country (5) To enhance the use of crop simulation models for increasing the farm income (6) Development of forewarning model for pests & diseases in fruit & vegetable crops (7) Use of artificial intelligence & big data analysis, machine learning & IoT for better advisory at farm level.
The winners of the oral presentation held under the aegis of the conference as well as scientists whose posters were adjudged to be the best, were felicitated by the Chief Guest with certificates.
Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-K, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai who was the chief guest, in his valedictory address highlighted about the climate change and its impact on agricultural sector. He added that the brainstorming on various aspects in this conference has significantly addressed the issue to some extent. The Vice Chancellor congratulated the organizers & Association of Agrometeorologists for this memorable event. Prof. Ganai in his address said that efforts should be made to use improved climate knowledge and technology, including monitoring and response mechanisms to current weather to reduce the uncertainties in agrometeorological risks. He also spoke about the role artificial Intelligence, machine learning, IoT, remote sensing and GIS based technologies in the development of precision and climate smart agriculture. He also emphasized that the deliberations you have had in this conference will contribute to deepen our understanding of how important issues relating to environment and disaster management can be tackled and resolved. He complimented all who have been associated with the organization of this highly creative conference. All Officers/Deans/Associate Deans/ADRs of SKUAST-K attended the function. Prof. Bashir Ahmad Khanday, Chairperson of Association of Agrometeorologists Kashmir-Chapter proposed the vote of thanks.

KR Desk