SKUAST-K, KVK Ganderbal empower tribal farmers with awareness, distribute agriculture inputs

GANDERBAL : Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Ganderbal Tuesday organized an Input Distribution Ceremony for tribal farmers of the district here at Naranag.
The initiative was undertaken as part of KVKs mission to uplift tribal farming communities through scientific interventions, capacity building and equitable access to agricultural resources.
Mian Altaf Ahmad Larvi, Member Parliament (Anantnag & Rajouri Parliamentary Constituency) presided over the event as chief guest, while Mian Meher Ali, MLA Kangan was the guest of honour. Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganie, Vice Chancellor of SKUAST-K; Prof. Raihana H. Kanth, Director Extension- SKUAST-K & Dr. Ajaz Ahmed Malik, Senior Scientist & Head KVK Ganderbal attended the programme.
Scientists & Supporting Staff of KVK Ganderbal, officials from line departments & members of civil society were also present.
In his keynote address, Mian Altaf commended KVK Ganderbal’s efforts at the grassroots level to connect tribal farmers with various government schemes and facilitate the distribution of essential inputs among them. He encouraged the farmers to move beyond subsistence farming and take advantage of training & skill development programmes offered by SKUAST-K for their empowerment.
Mian Mehar applauded the efforts of the KVK Ganderbal for their impactful work in bringing farmer-focused initiatives to far-flung tribal areas.
Prof. Nazir highlighted the role of economic empowerment of tribals through sustainable farming practices. He motivated the farmers to take up Organic Farming practices & focus on climate resilient crops for better returns.
Prof. Raihana shared valuable insights regarding the outreach programmes of SKUAST-K.
Dr. Ajaz gave a comprehensive overview regarding the programme and emphasized that access to modern farming tools & high yielding varieties will play a key role in making tribals self-reliant. He reiterated the commitment of KVK Ganderbal in reaching out to the far-flung areas of Ganderbal for the socio-economic upliftment of farmers.
On the occasion, valuable agriculture inputs were distributed among the farmers. The programme was attended by a large gathering of tribal farmers from remote areas of Ganderbal.