Bhat Shakir
Sopore : The Faculty of Agriculture, Wadura, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), successfully concluded a three-day training programme on “Millet vs Other Cereals” under HADP Project No. 08 – Promotion of Nutri Cereals (Millets) in UT of J&K, held from 17th to 19th September 2025.
The capacity-building programme aimed at empowering farmers with scientific knowledge on millet cultivation, nutritional benefits, and its role in sustainable agriculture. Thirty progressive farmers from different blocks of district Baramulla actively participated in the sessions.
The training featured expert lectures and field demonstrations covering themes such as comparative analysis of millets and major cereals, climate-resilient agronomic practices, organic farming, post-harvest management, value addition, and market opportunities for nutri-cereals. Special focus was placed on the nutritional superiority of millets and their suitability under rainfed and resource-limited conditions.
The programme was inaugurated by Dr. Bashir A. Alie, Prof. & Head, Division of Agronomy, who underscored the importance of millet-based farming for nutritional security, sustainable agriculture, and climate resilience.
During the valedictory session, Dr. A. A. Saad, Course Coordinator, emphasized that millet promotion is vital for dietary diversity and value chain development, urging farmers to explore its potential for livelihood enhancement.
Prof. Shakeel Ahmad Mir, Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, Wadura, graced the event as Chief Guest. He described millet cultivation as a climate-smart and nutrition-sensitive alternative to water-intensive cereals, capable of addressing malnutrition, improving farm incomes, and ensuring sustainable resource use.
Farmers expressed enthusiasm about adopting millet cultivation, appreciating the practical exposure and scientific guidance received during the training. Certificates of participation were distributed to all attendees.
The event concluded with a formal vote of thanks by Dr. Raies Ahmad Bhat, Assistant Professor, Division of Agronomy, who lauded the contribution of experts, participants, and organizers. The Faculty reaffirmed its commitment to continue such farmer-centric initiatives under HADP to promote climate-smart, nutrition-sensitive, and sustainable agricultural practices across Jammu and Kashmir.
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