SKUAST-K Brings 7.5 Hectares in Tulail Under Potato Seed Production
Target set to produce 3,000 quintals of seed potatoes this year; 30,000 next year under heritage crop revival plan
Convener News Desk
Bandipora, June 30: In a significant boost to high altitude farming, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) has brought 7.5 hectares of land at Badugam Tulail under potato seed production in an attempt to revive Traditional Crops in Gurez.
Dr. Hilal Ahmad Malik, Head of Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) and MAR&ES Gurez, told Kashmir Convener that they aim to produce 3,000 quintals this year and scale up to 30,000 quintals next year.
He was speaking at a day-long workshop organised by The Dryland Agriculture Research Station (DARS) Rangreth of SKUAST-K at Izmarg, Gurez under the AICRP on potential crops.
He added that over 16 hectares across Gurez have been covered under KG-2 maize, while the entire village of Dangan (Izmarg) has been brought under Buckwheat cultivation
He said, Additionally, a Custom Hiring Centre under HADP-09 has been set up, and farmers are being provided with toolkits and tarpaulin sheets to support natural farming practices and revive the traditional crop in the region.
Gurez valley is renowned for its potato production. Experts said the unique climate and fertile soil of the region, despite harsh winters, make it ideal for potato cultivation, including seed production. Gurez potatoes are known for their quality and are even attracting national and global attention.
Earlier an official spokesperson said the workshop was held in collaboration with the Mountain Agriculture Research & Extension Station (MAR&ES) and Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Gurez.
He said the programme, organised to promote the revival of heritage and potential crops among tribal farmers, was attended by officials from various departments as well as 43 progressive tribal farmers.
On the occasion, Dr. Ajaz Ahmad Lone, Professor and Principal Investigator, AICRP on Pulses, highlighted the importance of potential crops like Buckwheat in addressing nutritional needs, generating income, and promoting sustainable agriculture.
He expressed concern over the declining interest in such crops and emphasized the need to sensitize farmers through quality seed distribution, scientific training, and extension literature.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Fayaz Ahmad Bahar, Chief Scientist, DARS Rangreth, spoke about the efforts of the scientific community at SKUAST-K to revive orphan crops tied to the cultural heritage of Gurez.