 Early Times Report
Jammu, Feb 28: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu, in collaboration with Vigyan Parishad Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh and Vigyan Bharati Jammu, under IFAD’s Competitiveness Improvement of Agriculture & Allied Sectors Project, celebrated National Science Day 2026 on the theme “Women in Science: Catalysing Viksit Bharat.”
The programme was inaugurated by Prof. B.N. Tripathi, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu and President, Vigyan Parishad, Jammu, Kashmir & Ladakh. In his message, Prof. Tripathi highlighted the growing contribution of women scientists in realizing the vision of Viksit Bharat. He called upon students to actively engage in innovation, start-ups, and technology-driven enterprises, and urged young researchers to translate laboratory research into field-level solutions for sustainable agricultural development.
Dr. Sudhakar Dwivedi, Director Students’ Welfare, graced the occasion as Guest of Honour and spoke on the role of science in shaping an informed and progressive society. He elaborated on how scientific advancements strengthen the economy by enhancing productivity, generating employment, and supporting agriculture, industry, and technology-led growth.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Sameer Vohra, State Organization Secretary of Vigyan Bharati Jammu, stressed the importance of nurturing scientific temper among youth and building stronger linkages between science and society. He underlined the relevance of innovation, research, and indigenous technologies in advancing self-reliance and sustainable development.
Dr. Jyoti Kachroo, Director, Agri-Business Incubator, motivated students and young entrepreneurs to adopt innovation-led approaches in agriculture. Dr. Vikas Sharma, Professor & Head, Division of Soil Science; Dr. Vinod Gupta from the Division of Extension Education; Dr. Manish Sharma, Professor & Head, Division of Statistics and Computer Science; and Shri Pankaj Gupta, State Treasurer, Vigyan Bharati, Jammu, shared their perspectives on entrepreneurship development, technology dissemination, and the integration of science with grassroots agricultural practices.
Around 100 participants, including students, farm women, and entrepreneurs, attended the programme. Certificates were distributed to students and progressive farmers in recognition of their contributions to promoting scientific awareness and innovation in agriculture.
The event was organised by the Division of Agricultural Economics and Agri-Business Management in collaboration with Vigyan Bharati. The welcome address and vote of thanks were delivered by Dr. Pawan Kumar Sharma, Professor & Head of the Division, who acknowledged the support of collaborating agencies and appreciated the active participation of stakeholders.
Students associated with the programme included Iba Thanwal, Sahil Naik, and Kritika Sharma, whose dedicated efforts ensured the successful conduct of the event. The programme concluded with a collective pledge to promote scientific thinking, innovation, and inclusive participation in agricultural development across the region. |
