Srinagar, Feb,17: In A significant step towards strengthening agricultural awareness and innovation, a group of farmers from Banihal visited Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST), Kashmir as part of the Holistic Agriculture Development Program (HADP) Seed Project. The exposure visit aimed to educate farmers about the diverse seed varieties available in the Kashmir Valley and introduce them to advanced agricultural practices that can enhance productivity and sustainability.
Agricultural research institutions play a crucial role in developing improved seed varieties and farming techniques, but their impact is maximized when this knowledge reaches grassroots farmers. Recognizing this, SKUAST Kashmir, in collaboration with HADP, organized this awareness program to ensure that farmers from Banihal receive firsthand exposure to cutting-edge agricultural innovations.
During the visit, Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, Director of Extension at SKUAST, interacted with the farmers and emphasized the importance of high-yielding and location-specific seed varieties. She highlighted ongoing efforts under HADP projects that focus on ensuring livelihood security and sustainable agricultural development.
“Selecting the right seed varieties based on the region’s agro-climatic conditions is crucial for enhancing productivity. Through this initiative, we aim to equip farmers with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions about their crops,” said Prof. Kanth.
The awareness program featured key insights from Prof. Purshottam Singh, Prof. Farahanaz Rasool, Deputy Director of Extension, and Prof. Liyaqat Chaudhary, along with a team of scientists from SKUAST’s Directorate of Extension. The presence of senior extension officials from Banihal’s agriculture and allied departments further strengthened the exchange of knowledge between researchers and the farming community.
Farmers were introduced to various improved seed varieties of cereals, fodder, and other crops, helping them understand their benefits in terms of yield, resistance to diseases, and adaptation to local conditions. Experts also provided practical demonstrations and discussions on innovative farming techniques, climate resilience, and soil health management.
For many farmers, the visit provided valuable exposure to modern agricultural research and technology. Discussions focused not only on seed diversity but also on best practices for seed selection, storage, and usage to maximize productivity.
“This visit has been very informative. We learned about seed varieties that can give us better yields in Banihal’s climate. Meeting experts directly and understanding how research can help us has been an eye-opening experience,” said a farmer participant.
The exposure visit is part of a broader initiative to bridge the gap between research and practical farming. By facilitating direct interactions between farmers and scientists, such programs empower rural agricultural communities with knowledge that can lead to better crop yields, improved income, and long-term sustainability.
As SKUAST Kashmir continues its mission to extend its research to the fields, initiatives like the HADP Seed Project serve as a catalyst for agricultural transformation in Jammu and Kashmir. With better access to scientific knowledge and modern technology, Banihal’s farmers are now better equipped to face agricultural challenges and optimize their productivity.
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