 Early Times Report
JAMMU, Feb 21: Prof. B.N. Tripathi, Vice Chancellor, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST), Jammu, inaugurated a five-day NIAM-sponsored training programme focused on empowering women in agriculture and entrepreneurship. The event, organized by the Division of Agricultural Economics and Agri-Business Management, aims to equip women with skills to enhance their participation in the agricultural sector.
In his inaugural address, Prof. Tripathi emphasized the crucial role of women in agricultural development and rural progress. He highlighted their contributions in both household management and farm operations and encouraged participants to take advantage of government initiatives to develop micro-enterprises from home. He also stressed the importance of value addition in agricultural produce, pointing out that only 7% of India's farm output undergoes processing. He urged women to explore opportunities in food processing and marketing, thereby fostering economic independence.
Discussing the diverse agro-climatic zones of Jammu and Kashmir, Prof. Tripathi underscored the potential of horticulture as a profitable venture and introduced SKUAST-Jammu's branding and marketing centre. He assured full university support for self-help groups (SHGs) and women entrepreneurs, offering free training sessions to encourage their participation.
Dr. Anil Kumar, Dean Faculty of Agriculture, highlighted the importance of niche horticulture crops in the region and emphasized how such programmes can uplift the economic status of farmers and farm women.
The programme is being led by Course Director Dr. Sudhakar Dwivedi, Dean of Student Welfare. The event commenced with a warm welcome by Dr. Dwivedi, who provided an overview of the training sessions. A vote of thanks was presented by Dr. Pawan Kumar Sharma, while Dr. Anil Bhat conducted the proceedings.
Several key university officials and faculty members, including Dr. Punit Choudhary (Head, KVK Jammu), Dr. Prem Kumar (Scientist, Fisheries), Dr. Akshay Deep, Dr. Maninder Singh, and Dr. Rohit Kumar, were associated with the programme. Over 35 women participants attended the inaugural session, marking a significant step toward promoting women's empowerment in agriculture. |
