PAMPORE: Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Extension Training Centre Malangpora Pulwama hosted the trainees of one-year diploma for Agriculture Extension Services and input dealers organized by Directorate of Extension, SAMETI SKUAST-Kashmir, Shalimar on Wednesday.
The trainees were formally received by the Prof. and Head KVK Malangpora, Dr Javeed Ahmad Mugloo who highlighted the role of and mandate of KVK.
The scientists of various sections gave comprehensive details of the work being carried out in their respective sections in the KVK. Dr Jahangeer Ahmad Baba, Scientist Fruit Science gave awareness to the trainees regarding the scenario of fruit production in district Pulwama and the problems faced by the growers in managing various issues related to fruit crops.
Dr Waseem Scientist Plant Protection delivered the lecture on the management of diseases and pests and emphasized the importance of SKUAST-Kashmir, released a spray schedule for keeping the diseases and pests under control with special emphasis on leaf miners and their management. Dr Rukhsar, Scientist of Vegetable Science introduced the trainees to the scope and importance of exotic vegetables and the work being carried out by Kendra on exotic vegetables. Dr Gowhar Nabi Parrey, Scientist Agro-Forestry later on accompanied the trainees to the medicinal and aromatic block and gave them awareness and procedure for scientific cultivation and value addition of various medicinal and aromatic plants being cultivated at the Kendra.
The trainees visited the different demonstration units along with the concerned scientists, KVK Malangpora officials told Kashmir Reader.
During the field visit the trainees were acquainted with the strategy being carried out to manage the diseases and pests in various fruit crops, vegetables, field crops and medicinal and aromatic plants.
The trainees also visited the soil testing laboratory and honey testing laboratory. Dr Towseef Ahamad Wani, Scientist FST briefed the trainees regarding the quality testing and branding of honey and other products being tested at this Kendra. Dr Syed Shujat highlighted the importance of soil testing for sustainable production and soil health management.

BILAL HABIB