 Early Times Report
UDHAMPUR, Feb 27: A Mega Kissan Mela was organised at Narsingh Sewa Kendra, Khoon Block, under HADP Project No. 20 by SKUAST-Jammu in collaboration with various development departments. The event witnessed an overwhelming participation of more than 800 farmers from surrounding areas, providing them with a platform to gain first-hand knowledge on various agricultural advancements.
The Chief Guest of the event was Prof. B.N. Tripathi, Vice-Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu, who applauded the efforts of farmers in adopting innovative practices for sustainable agriculture and emphasized the role of advanced technologies in enhancing productivity and income. He also highlighted the significance of conserving indigenous cattle breeds like Sahiwal and promoting their breeding for improving dairy production in the region. Prof. Tripathi further commended the active involvement of Narsingh Sewa Kendra in creating awareness among farmers about sustainable agricultural practices and the promotion of Sahiwal cattle breeding initiatives.
MLA Ranbir Singh Pathania graced the occasion as the Special Guest and interacted with local farmers and officers from the line department. The event commenced with a welcome note by Dr. AmrishVaid, Director Extension, SKUAST-Jammu, who outlined the objectives of the Mela and the significance of bridging the gap between farmers and scientific advancements.
Dr. Arvinder Singh Reen, Director Agriculture, deliberated on the importance of integrated farming systems and how they can help farmers increase their income through diversification. Dr. S.K. Gupta, Director Research, and Dr. Vikas Tandon, Dean, College of Horticulture, Dr Hema Tripathi, ADE Extension, Sh. Naresh Gupta, Treasurer, Narsingh Sewa Kendra, also attended the event, sharing insights into the cooperative's efforts to promote sustainable agricultural practices.
Dr. Vinod Gupta, Professor and Head of Agricultural Extension and Principal Investigator of the Project, delivered the vote of thanks, acknowledging the contributions of various stakeholders in making the event successful. He expressed gratitude to the participating farmers, dignitaries, and collaborating departments for their enthusiastic support. Dr. Gupta reiterated the commitment of SKUAST-Jammu to uplift the livelihoods of farmers through science-led interventions.
On the occasion, Sh. Sunil Badyal, Vice President Narsingh Sewa Kendra, Khoon briefed the participants about the activities of Narsingh Sewa Kendra and its role in empowering the local farming community. He also highlighted the ongoing initiatives to promote Sahiwal cattle breeding and provide necessary support to farmers for adopting these breeds.
A total of 20 exhibition stalls were set up by various departments, KVKs, and self-help groups, showcasing innovative technologies, farm machinery, organic products, and value-added products. Demonstrations on vermincomposting, soil testing, and drip irrigation systems were conducted, enabling farmers to gain practical knowledge.
The technical session included detailed lectures by Dr. Anamika Jamwal, Scientist, KVK Kathua on round-the-year mushroom cultivation, including various species, production techniques, and market linkages. Dr. Sanjay Koushal spoke on natural farming practices, stressing the use of bio-inputs and zero-budget farming methods to reduce dependency on chemical fertilizers. Dr. Mandeep Singh Azad delivered a detailed lecture on the conservation and importance of indigenous cattle breeds for enhancing dairy production, discussing genetic traits, disease resistance, and milk quality of local breeds. |
