 Early Times Report
JAMMU, Jan 10: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology (SKUAST) of Jammu, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture Production & Farmers Welfare, organized a five-day "Training of Trainers (TOT) Capacity Building of FPOs in J&K" from January 6 to January 10, 2025. The program, held under the HADP-20 project titled "Innovative Extension Approaches for Revitalizing Agriculture in Jammu & Kashmir," was supported by the National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE), Hyderabad.
Dr. M. Srikanth, Director of Agri-Business Management, MANAGE, served as the Chief Guest at the valedictory function. He highlighted the importance of bankable business plans for Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs) and stressed the need for proper transaction records to enhance financial support for FPCs, only 11% of which currently receive bank assistance.
Prof. Rajinder Peshin, Director Education, SKUAST-Jammu, as Guest of Honour, recommended using the Kirkpatrick Model for training evaluation to ensure that learnings translate into practical applications and attitude changes among trainees.
The program witnessed active participation from over 60 officers of the Agriculture Department. Resource persons included experts from MANAGE, Hyderabad, such as Mr. Nagamalla Sricharan, Mr. Asif Mohi-Ud-Din, and Mr. Parshotam, who shared insights on innovative agricultural practices.
The valedictory function was chaired by Prof. Vinod Gupta, Head of Agricultural Extension Education and PI of the project, who thanked dignitaries and resource persons for their contributions. Ms. Rashmeet Kour, a Ph.D. scholar, extended the vote of thanks.
The initiative is expected to significantly benefit field functionaries in revitalizing agriculture across Jammu and Kashmir. |
