Srinagar, Dec 5: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir Tuesday inaugurated two existing management development programs (E-MDP) at the KVK Kulgam for the unemployed youth of the district.
The training programs, ‘Development of Low-cost Bioformulations for the Management of Soil-borne Pathogens’ and ‘Production of Bio-fortified Vermicompost with Isolates of Trichoderma Species’ are organised by the SKUAST-K’s Mountain Research Centre for Field Crops (MRCFC), Khudwani under the sponsorship of the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Govt of India.
Prof Najeeb-ul-Rehman Sofi, Associate Director, Research, MRCFC, Khudwani, highlighted the prospects of exploring low-cost bioformulations and producing bio-fortified vermicompost. Dr. Sofi advocated for recognizing the potential of Trichoderma species isolates and embracing eco-friendly practices as crucial steps towards fostering resilient and climate-smart agriculture.
Dr Manzoor A Ganie emphasized that the initiative extends beyond addressing soil-borne pathogens and opening up entrepreneurial opportunities in agriculture. Dr Farooq A Sheikh highlighted that beyond addressing current challenges in soil health and pathogen management, these initiatives serve as a strategy to promote entrepreneurship in agriculture. Prof Ashaq Hussain made an in-depth presentation on the potential of these initiatives in the context of Kashmir. Additionally, he explored various compost preparation methods and their significance in the management of soil health.
Dr Fayaz A Mohiddin emphasized how these initiatives, centred around creating cost-effective bioformulations for soil-borne pathogen management and entrepreneurially producing bio-fortified vermicompost with Trichoderma isolates, align with the goal of promoting sustainable agriculture.

KR Desk