SRINAGAR: Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Budgam, under the leadership of Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-K, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, in collaboration with TSP ICAR, organized an awareness and input distribution program under the project titled “Promotion of Natural Farming in Tribal Areas of Kashmir.” The initiative aimed to enhance sustainable farming practices among tribal farmers in the region.
Sixty tribal farmers from Village SurasyarChadoora received essential inputs—including drums, buckets, gloves, and shoes—to support the preparation of bio-resource inputs for Natural Farming.
Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, Director Extension SKUAST-K and Chief Guest on the occasion, highlighted the importance of adopting innovative, climate-resilient, and sustainable agricultural technologies. She urged tribal farmers to maintain regular contact with KVK scientists and field officers to ensure proper technical guidance and to maximize the benefits of government-supported schemes. Prof. Kanth elaborated on the current status, scope, challenges, and significance of Natural Farming in Kashmir, describing it as the “Farming of Microbes.” She emphasized the critical role of minimum or zero tillage and conservation agriculture to enhance Natural Farming practices.
Prof. Kanth encouraged farmers and scientists alike to deepen their understanding of biotic and abiotic factors influencing farm health. She also briefed attendees on SKUAST-K’s role in advancing agricultural research to support the farming community in the valley.
Dr. Bilal Ahmad Lone, Head of KVK Budgam, provided insights into the KVK’s role in facilitating agricultural and allied activities through on-farm trials, frontline demonstrations, and skill-based training sessions. He motivated farmers to utilize KVK services for more profitable and sustainable farming.
Scientists and technical staff from KVK Budgam were also present, engaging in interactive sessions and demonstrations of modern farming practices. The program emphasized the promotion of entrepreneurship within the agricultural and allied sectors.
Dr. Shazia Ramzan shared updates on the activities and progress of the Natural Farming project implemented in the district. She stressed the need for a clear strategy and vision to popularize Natural Farming and emphasized the importance of collaboration among stakeholders for effective implementation and data collection. She also highlighted the necessity of developing mechanisms to ensure proper markets for Natural Farming produce.
The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. Bhinish Shakeel.