Bilal Habib
PAMPORE, June 11: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) organized a one-day Training-cum-Input Distribution Programme under the “Khet Bacho Abhiyan” on the theme “Organic Standards for Healthy Soils and Regenerative Agriculture” at Ladhoo village in Pampore Tehsil.
The programme was conducted under HADP-16 (Alternate System of Agriculture for Sustainability) in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Sub-Division Tral, with the objective of creating awareness among farmers about organic farming standards, healthy soil management, regenerative agricultural practices, and sustainable farming systems.
The event provided a platform for farmers to interact with agricultural experts and gain practical knowledge on improving soil fertility and enhancing agricultural productivity through eco-friendly farming approaches, officials told Kashmir Convener.
Speaking on the occasion, Joint Director Agriculture Extension, Kashmir, Madan Gopal Singh, emphasized the importance of adopting organic and regenerative farming practices to improve soil health, reduce environmental degradation, and ensure long-term agricultural sustainability. He stressed the need for effective extension services to facilitate the transfer of scientific technologies to farming communities.
Prof. Ghulam Hassan, Professor (Pathology), ARSS&TSS, SKUAST-K, delivered an expert lecture on organic plant health management and disease prevention. He highlighted organic approaches to crop disease management and underscored the significance of preventive measures for maintaining healthy and productive crops.
Addressing the gathering, Mir Ashiq Hussain, Agriculture Extension Officer (AEO), Pampore, highlighted the importance of organic farming practices, efficient utilization of farm inputs, and active farmer participation in capacity-building programmes. He encouraged farmers to adopt sustainable agricultural technologies to enhance productivity and farm income.
As part of the programme, bio-fertilizers, bio-pesticides, and vermicompost were distributed among participating farmers to promote organic cultivation and support the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices. Informational pamphlets and usage manuals related to the distributed inputs were also provided to farmers by Dr. Moneesa Bashir, Dr. Rifat-un-Nisa, Sheeraz Ahmad, and Maninder Pal Singh to facilitate their effective use at the farm level.
The initiative aims to improve soil health, reduce dependence on synthetic chemicals, and strengthen regenerative farming systems in the region.
The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from 30 to 40 farmers from Ladhoo and adjoining areas. Participants appreciated the joint efforts of SKUAST-K and the Department of Agriculture in bringing scientific knowledge and essential organic inputs directly to the farming community.
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