One Week Training Programme on Optimising Ecological Resources and Process to Minimize Usage of Chemicals at Watergam

Sopore : One Week Training Programme on Optimising Ecological Resources and Process to Minimize Usage of Chemicals at Watergam Sub-Division Rohama Organised by FoA, Wadura, SKUAST-Kashmir and sponsored by MSME.

Faculty of Agriculture, (FoA) Wadura, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir inaugurates “One Week” training program on “Optimising Ecological Resources and Process to Minimize Usage of Chemicals” and “One day” awareness programme on “Entrepreneurship Development of Women Through Organic Farming” in collaboration with Department of Agriculture Sub- Division Rohama, Zone Watergam, Baramulla, funded by MSME (Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises).
The primary objective of the programme was to equip and inspire participants to develop innovative ideas and understand the significance of Organic Farming, Optimising ecological Resources besides negative impact of chemicals.
The event was graced by the presence of Chief Guest, Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, Dean Faculty of Agriculture, who highlighted the hazards of indiscriminate use of inorganic fertilizers and other pesticides possessing severe hazards to the environment, human health and ecosystem. She underscored that this programme serves as a significant step towards promoting sustainable agricultural practices and empowering the community, especially women, through organic farming and ecological resource optimization.
On the occasion Dr Yadvinder Singh Sason Chief Agricultural Officer Baramulla played an important role during the inaugural Session of the training programme and also highlighted the potential of these organic farming practices and deliberated upon various Govt sponsored schemes and incentivization for promoting organic farming in Jammu and Kashmir.
Dr. Bilal Ah. Bhat Head Division of Agri-extension and communication, FoA, Wadura shed light on the importance of these training programmes in fostering new enterprises and assured participants of continued support in their entrepreneurial journeys.
Dr. Zahoor Ahmad Shah (Assistant Professor cum Junior Scientist) Division of Agri. Extension talked about the importance of Organic Farming practices in crops w.r.t. Kashmir Scenario, ill effects of using herbicides, insecticides and pesticides and their residual effects on preceding crops.
Dr. Shayista emphasized the importance of promoting organic farming practices as a viable alternative to mitigate the adverse effects of chemical usage. This holistic approach aims to foster a healthier environment, promote sustainable agriculture, and ensure the well-being of local communities.

Mr. Farooq Ahmad Dar, Tehsildar Watergam also highlighted the importance of women empowerment.
Key contributors to the programme included Sub District Agriculture Officer, other Extension Officers of the line department and Research Scholars from SKUAST Kashmir attended the event and played an important role during the inaugural session of the training programme.
About 75 Participants of MSME sponsored training /awareness programme participated including young entrepreneurs, women farmers, practicing farmers and unemployed youth. Significant Number of participants were Women farmers including (OBC) category in the event.
Prof. Parmeet Singh expressed heartfelt appreciation and submitted gratitude to Sub District Agricultural officer Mrs. Shahnaz Nabi Sofi (AEO),Mr. Yasir Ahmad Mir technical officer and his dedicated team for their exceptional efforts and collaboration to make this event happen in their respected zone. We acknowledge the financial support rendered by Directorate of Planning and Monitoring, SKUAST Kashmir for sponsoring these important entrepreneurship events.