Srinagar: Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Srinagar, under Holistic Agricultural Development Project (HADP), successfully organized a one-day awareness cum popularization program titled “Revolutionizing Agriculture in Jammu and Kashmir: The Power of Innovative Extension” approved under HADP project Innovative Extension Approaches on 28th of September 2023. The event witnessed active participation from various stakeholders in the agriculture sector.
The program was chaired by Professor Dil Mohammed Malkhdoomi, Director Extension SKUAST-K, who consented to act as the Chief Guest. Joining him on the dais were Mr. Choudhary Mohammed Iqbal, Director Agriculture Kashmir; Prof. Masood Saleem Mir, Associate Director Research (AS); Prof. Mohammed Anwar Bhat, Chief Scientist; Prof. Parmeet Singh, Chief Scientist; Mr. V. K. Gupta, Chief Horticulture Officer Srinagar; Dr. Sajad Mohiuddin, Senior Scientist & Head KVK Srinagar; along with Kendra Staff, field functionaries of line departments, RHWE Students, FPOs and progressive farmers from the district Srinagar.
Director Extension SKUAST-K, encouraged everyone to avail the opportunities under HADP, emphasizing its potential to render farming not only lucrative but also attractive to the youth. He underscored the role of digital technologies in bridging the gap between scientists and farmers, stressing its importance in advancing agricultural practices.
Mr. Choudhary Mohammed Iqbal, Director Agriculture Kashmir, shared his extensive expertise, providing a comprehensive discussion on the inception and conceptualization of projects under HADP. He underscored the significance of exchange of knowledge and ideas among experts, officials, and farmers, highlighting the profound and positive influence it holds for the agricultural landscape of the region.
Professor Masood Saleem Mir provided comprehensive insights into the establishment and functioning of Kissan Khidmat Ghar. He highlighted that this initiative will play a pivotal role in supplying quality inputs for agricultural use. It will serve as a crucial mechanism for verifying and curbing counterfeit products and practices.
Professor Parmeet Singh gave a keynote lecture on innovative extension approaches with substantial potential for propelling agriculture in the region forward. He extensively discussed the schemes and scope of HADP, emphasizing their role in fostering sustainable agricultural practices.
Chief Horticulture Officer Srinagar provided a comprehensive overview of the schemes available under HADP available with the Department of Horticulture, along with their potential benefits for farmers.
Earlier in the day Senior Scientist & Head KVK Dr. Sajad Mohiuddin in his inaugural address said that the programme serves as a significant milestone in the collective efforts towards advancing agricultural practices in Jammu and Kashmir. Coordinator of the one day awareness program, Dr. Uzma Bashir (Senior Scientist), gave a concise overview of the entire event.
During the event six publications pertaining to the awareness programme were also released by the Kendra.
The program was wholeheartedly supported by scientists as well as supporting staff of the Kendra and moderated by Dr. Malik Raies Ul Islam. The programme culminated with vote of thanks proposed by Dr Aasima Rafiq.

KR Desk