SKUAST-K’s KVK Kupwara Holds Mega Awareness Event for Tribal Farmers

Kupwara, Dec: 11:In a major step toward strengthening the agricultural sector and uplifting tribal communities, the unit of SKUAST-K Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Kupwara today organised an extensive Training-cum-Awareness Program, coupled with the distribution of vital agricultural inputs to local farmers. The event, held at the KVK Kupwara campus, witnessed enthusiastic participation from tribal farmers, agricultural experts, scientists, and dignitaries committed to promoting sustainable and modern farming practices in the district.

The program underscored the growing collaboration between academic institutions and government bodies in promoting rural development. MLA Kupwara Mir Mohammad Fayaz graced the event as the Chief Guest, while Vice Chancellor SKUAST-K, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, attended as the Guest of Honour. Director Extension SKUAST-K, Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, also marked her presence as a Special Guest, reflecting the shared vision for agricultural advancement in remote areas.

The event commenced with an inaugural address by Head KVK Kupwara, Prof. G. M. Bhat, who stressed the role of modern tools and technologies in transforming traditional farming systems. He highlighted how scientific interventions in crop management, soil fertility, pest control, and sustainable practices can significantly raise productivity and income, especially for tribal farmers facing geographical and resource-related constraints.

Expert scientists from KVK Kupwara delivered informative and interactive technical sessions, offering farmers practical solutions to field-specific challenges. The sessions focused on improving crop yields, reducing input costs, and encouraging the adoption of climate-smart techniques. Farmers actively participated in discussions, expressing keen interest in implementing the new knowledge in their fields.

A major highlight of the program was the distribution of agricultural inputs and farming tools, aimed at helping tribal farmers immediately apply the techniques demonstrated during the training. Beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the support, calling such initiatives “a lifeline” for remote communities with limited access to resources.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Guest MLA Mir Mohammad Fayaz applauded the consistent efforts of KVK Kupwara under the banner of SKUAST-K in organising impactful farmer-centric programs. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to rural development and announced key infrastructure upgradation measures. These include fencing of agricultural lands to curb wildlife damage, installation of street lighting in rural belts, and macadamisation of vital roads leading to agricultural zones. He stated that these improvements will strengthen connectivity, reduce post-harvest losses, and improve overall agricultural efficiency in Kupwara.

Farmers attending the event responded with great enthusiasm and optimism. “This training has opened our eyes to innovative methods of farming. The MLA’s announcements will bring real and immediate relief to our community,” said one of the participating farmers.

Meanwhile, VC SKUAST-K, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, congratulated the hardworking scientific team of KVK Kupwara, especially Dr. Firdous Ahmad Raina, who served as the event’s dais Incharge. Several senior scientists were also present including Prof. Javid Ahmad Magloo (Head KVK Malangpora), Dr. Khursheed Ahmad Dar (Associate Professor, Sericulture), G. M. Mir (Ex-Joint Director, Marketing & Planning), Dr. Fara-Naz (Deputy Director Trainings, Directorate of Extension), and many others who contributed their expertise.

The program concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Prof. Mugloo, acknowledging the contributions of dignitaries, scientists, field staff, and participating farmers.

KVK Kupwara continues to play a pivotal role in disseminating scientific knowledge and driving agricultural innovation across Jammu & Kashmir, particularly in tribal-dominated areas. Today’s event reinforced the commitment to sustainable growth, improved livelihoods, and a brighter agricultural future for Kupwara’s farming community.