Early Times Report
REASI, Aug 22: The Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) in Reasi, affiliated with Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology-Jammu (SKUAST-J), successfully concluded the 18th Parthenium Awareness Week from August 16th to 22nd. The event, held at Govt. Migrants Middle School, Talwara, saw enthusiastic participation from numerous school children and teachers. Throughout the week, various programs were organized in different villages, the KVK Reasi campus, and Govt. Migrants Middle School, as a part of the initiative.
Under the dynamic leadership of Hon'ble Vice Chancellor, Prof. BN Tripathi, and the guidance of Director Extension (DE), Prof. SK Gupta of SKUAST-J, the program aimed to raise awareness about the Parthenium weed and its management. Dr. Banarsi Lal, Senior Scientist & Head of KVK Reasi, highlighted the significance of the initiative. Parthenium management has become a serious concern for both agricultural and non-agricultural areas, as well as for human beings, livestock, the environment, and biodiversity.
Dr. Banarsi Lal explained that Parthenium hysterophorus (congress grass) is an allergic, poisonous, and aggressive weed posing a threat to humans, animals, and biodiversity. It has economic implications, as it affects up to 40% of crop yields, resulting in significant losses for farmers. Collaborative efforts are essential to eradicate this weed.
Dr. Suja Nabi Qureshi, Scientist, highlighted the plant's ability to grow year-round and regrow from cut or broken parts. It lacks natural enemies and has allelopathic effects, contributing to its rapid growth. The scientists demonstrated various techniques for Parthenium eradication and distributed extension literature on management methods.
Headmaster Sh. Bansi Lal and school teachers expressed appreciation for the awareness program. Participants posed queries, which were addressed satisfactorily by KVK scientists.
The event concluded with a formal vote of thanks by Dr. Suja Nabi Qureshi, emphasizing the importance of collective responsibility in eradicating this harmful weed. The Parthenium Awareness Week successfully informed participants about the risks posed by this weed and encouraged collaborative efforts towards its management and elimination. |
