Distributes seeds among 200 farmers

Pampore: SKUAST-Kashmir’s Krishi Vigyan Kendra/Extension Training Center (KVK/ETC) in Malangpora Pulwama on Thursday organized a large-scale awareness and seed distribution program. The event was conducted in collaboration with AICRP on Seeds and DARS-Budgam under the Tribal Sub Plan and NSP SKUAST-K Shalimar, as a part of the HADP project – Development of Fodder Resources for UT of J&K. The event took place at the KVK campus in Malangpora, located in the southern region of Kashmir’s Pulwama district.
According to KVK Malangpora officials, the program witnessed enthusiastic participation from farmers and farm women representing various villages, including Koil, Malangpora, Tokuna, as well as the tribal villages of Sangerwani and Laam Tral.
Professor and Head of KVK/ETC Malangpora, Javaid Ahmad Magloo, underscored the significant impact of such initiatives on the agricultural progress within the district. Prof. Asif Shikari, representing the HADP project, shed light on the project’s objectives and its crucial role in mitigating fodder shortages, particularly during severe winters.
Expert speakers, including Prof. Sher A Dar, Prof. Noor ul Saleem Khuroo, and Prof. Aijaz Ahmad, along with scientists from NSP Unit Shalimar and KVK Pulwama, shared valuable insights on scientific fodder production practices aimed at enhancing farmers’ income.
During the full-day program, over 200 farmers in the district were provided 25 quintals of oats seed, field pea, and essential farming tools free of charge. The farmers expressed deep satisfaction and appreciation for the collaborative initiative led by KVK/ETC Malangpora, NSP Shalimar, and DARS Budgam, recognizing the support provided for their agricultural endeavors.
The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Abdul Rouf, Scientist FST, expressing gratitude to all participants and collaborators for their active involvement and contributions to the event’s success. The collective efforts of various stakeholders showcased a strong commitment to agricultural development in the region and the welfare of local farmers.
In an interview with Kashmir Reader, Prof. Javaid Ahmad Magloo, Head of KVK-ETC Malangpora, highlighted the importance of the Seed Distribution cum Awareness Program. He emphasized the program’s aim to support tribal communities and local farmers. Magloo detailed the distribution of fodder seeds to approximately 200 farmers, with each farmer receiving 10 to 20 kilograms of seeds as part of the initiative.
Magloo elaborated that the distribution of fodder seeds is part of the HADP program, covering the entire valley, addressing the significant fodder shortage issue in the region. He emphasized the district’s reputation for milk production and outlined the project’s focus on achieving self-sufficiency, empowering farmers through comprehensive support and educational measures.
“We have distributed seeds to the tribal farmers from upper areas, including Sangarwani, Lam Tral, Malangpora, Koil, Gulzarpora, Noopora, and Kellar. I believe this initiative will benefit them in the future,” Magloo remarked.
Looking forward, Magloo expressed the team’s aspiration to meet 40 to 50 percent of the demand within the next four to five years, expressing satisfaction with the community’s support and the dedicated efforts of his staff.
In addition to seed distribution, Magloo highlighted the integration of fodder cultivation into orchards, educating farmers about appropriate technology, application, and sowing techniques, leading to improved production and increased milk yield. He encouraged everyone to take full advantage of the project’s benefits, emphasizing the importance of seizing opportunities for agricultural progress and prosperity.

BILAL HABIB