 Early Times Report
UDHAMPUR, Nov 29: A one-day Kisan Mela was successfully organized at Ghordi, Udhampur under the dynamic leadership of Hon'ble Vice Chancellor, Prof. (Dr.) B. N. Tripathi, and coordinated by Dr. Vinod Gupta, Head, Division of Agricultural Extension Education, SKUAST-Jammu, in collaboration with Dr Amrish Vaid, Director Extension and Bharatiya Kisan Sangh. The event witnessed an enthusiastic participation of 500+ farmers from Ghordi and adjoining areas.
The event was formally inaugurated by Hon'ble MLA, Chenani, Shri Balwant Singh Mankotia, followed by the felicitation of dignitaries, including Dr. S. K. Gupta (Director Research, (SKUAST-Jammu), Dr. Amrish Vaid (Director Extension), senior scientists, and representatives of Bharatiya Kisan Sangh.
The Hon'ble MLA, Shri Balwant Singh Mankotia who served as the Chief Guest, commended SKUAST-Jammu and Bharatiya Kisan Sangh for organizing such an impactful agricultural outreach programme in a remote hilly region. He emphasized that agriculture is the backbone of the rural economy and highlighted the government's commitment to support farmer-friendly initiatives. He encouraged farmers to adopt modern agricultural technologies, diversify their enterprises, and take full benefits of ongoing schemes, especially those promoting agri-entrepreneurship, livestock development, and value addition.
Dr. S. K. Gupta, Director Research, SKUAST-Jammu, Guest of Honour addressed the gathering, stressing the importance of transferring research-based innovations to the grassroot level. He stated that the University is working actively to develop climate-resilient varieties and sustainable farming technologies tailored for the hilly terrain of Jammu Division. He urged farmers to stay connected with scientists so that research output can be effectively translated into field-level improvements. Dr. Amrish Vaid, Director Extension, highlighted the significance of extension education in building the capacity of farmers. He explained that the true purpose of extension lies in simplifying scientific knowledge and making it accessible and applicable for farmers. He encouraged participants to remain engaged with KVKs, attend regular training programmes, adopt improved farming practices, and explore integrated farming systems suited for small and fragmented landholdings.
Prof. (Dr.) Vinod Gupta, Coordinator of the program, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to all dignitaries, experts, and participating farmers. He highlighted the collective efforts of SKUAST-Jammu, Bharatiya Kisan Sangh, and the local community in making the event successful. Dr. Gupta also acknowledged the contributions of the university staff, teachers, and students who helped to organize the mela and coordinated the exhibitions. He emphasized that such platforms play a critical role in facilitating knowledge exchange, encouraging the adoption of modern technologies, and promoting sustainable agriculture practices in the region.
Shri Balkar Singh Ji, Adhyaksh, Bharatiya Kisan Sangh, appreciated the collaborative efforts of SKUAST-Jammu and BKS in mobilizing farmers from far-flung pockets of Ghordi. |
