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Srinagar : Division of Forest Biology and Tree Improvement SKUAST-K successfully concluded its second session of one day Entrepreneurship Awareness Programme sponsored by Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises on “Forest Botanicals Viz-a-Viz Women Trailblazers”, today on 20th December, 2024 at Village Watlar, Ganderbal.
The program progressed by the welcome address by Dr. Sabeena Nabi, Assistant Professor/Jr. Scientist who herself is training coordinator accentuate the role a women can play as an entrepreneur to regional in particular and global economy in general. She also comprehensively provided an in-depth impression of the training program, highlighting the importance of entrepreneurship initiatives in promoting self sustaining livelihoods through forest botanical startups. Women have historically played a significant role in collecting and processing forest botanicals, but their contribution have often been underpresented in the entrepreneurial sphere. However, recent trends show an increasing number of women-led startups venturing into the cultivation, processing and marketing of forest based products such as essential oils, herbal teas, cosmetics and health supplements. These startups not only cater to the booming demand for natural products but also contribute to the conservation of India’s forests by promoting sustainable harvesting practices and eco-friendly production methods. As such, women are not just business leaders but also environmental stewards, making their role in the sector both economically and ecologically vital.
The program nurtured more than 50(fifty) women participants from village Watlar who were guided and given practical knowhow regarding cultivation and marketing of forest botanicals. A series of enlightening sessions were conducted by Prof. P.A.Khan, Dr. Sabeena Nabi and Dr. Ashfaq.
In concluding remarks Dr. Sabeena Nabi wrapped up the event by extending heartfelt gratitude and gratefulness to Honorable Vice Chancellor Prof. N. A. Ganai, Director Planning and Monitoring Prof. H. R. Naik, Prof. S. A. Gangoo, Dean of the Faculty of Forestry and Prof. P. A. Khan, Head Division of Forest Biology and Tree Improvement for their invaluable support and direction. She also extended her sincere appreciation to the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), GoI, New Delhi for sponsoring the program. Additionally, Mr. Riyaz, FCLA FBT Division, along with Mr. Tahir (DPL) FBT Division, contributed significantly and provided valuable assistance to ensure the success of the program. Also, Ms. Ishrat Malik, Ms. Khusboo, Ms. Ishrat Ashraf and Ms. Fozia volunteers from Village Watlar are duely acknowledged for being instrumental in facilitating the participation of women folk in the said training program.
