Experts highlight KVK’s role in addressing climate change, stress collaboration among stakeholders

Awantipora: In a proactive move to confront the challenges posed by climate change, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) Kashmir’s Krishi Vigyan Kendra Extension Training Centre Malangpora conducted a significant Capacity Building Training Programme on Saturday. Titled “Impact of Climate Change on pollinators under the changing climatic scenario of Kashmir,” the event aimed to raise awareness among stakeholders about climate change’s far-reaching effects on food security.
The training saw active participation from extension officials of the Agriculture and Horticulture Departments, progressive farmers, and beekeepers from Pulwama district. The initiative unfolded as part of the project “National Innovations in Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA-CRIDA).”
Bari Andrabi, DDC Chairman Pulwama, and Zaffar Husson Shawl, Additional Deputy Commissioner Awantipora, graced the gathering as the chief guest and guest of honor, respectively. Prof. Javaid Ahmad Mugloo, Head of KVK/ETC Pulwama, highlighted KVK’s vital role in addressing environmental concerns and welcomed the dignitaries.
Addressing the audience, Bari Andrabi emphasized the importance of extension functionaries in bridging technological gaps and reaching every section of society at the grassroots level. Zaffar Husson Shawl stressed the need for collaboration among stakeholders to collectively tackle climate change.
Dr. Shahnawaz Ahmad Dar, Training Coordinator, and other experts from SKUAST-K delivered detailed presentations on the “Impact of Climate Change on pollinators under the changing climatic scenario of Kashmir.” The program aimed to build awareness and foster collaboration to address climate change challenges in the region.
Dr. Javaid Ahmad Mugloo highlighted the factors contributing to climate change, such as global warming, chemical fertilizers, urbanization, deforestation, and irrigation. He underscored the adverse effects on pollinators and the crucial pollination process for fruit production. The program focused on skill development for stakeholders to effectively mitigate and prevent these issues.
Dr. Mugloo expressed satisfaction with the smooth execution of the program, emphasizing its potential benefits for field functionaries, horticulture officers, and farmers. The initiative served as a bridge between ongoing research and stakeholders, promoting comprehensive knowledge dissemination and skill development to address climate change concerns.

BILAL HABIB