JAMMU, DECEMBER 22: The annual zonal workshop of Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) of ICAR–ATARI, Zone-I for the year 2024–25 began on Monday at the Baba Jitto Auditorium, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu (SKUAST-J), Chatha.
The workshop, as per an official statement, was inaugurated by Minister for Agriculture Production Department, Rural Development Department and Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Departments, Javid Ahmad Dar.
The three day workshop, to be held from December 22 to 24, has brought together the key stakeholders of agricultural research and extension from across northern India to review performance, share best practices and chart future strategies for strengthening the farmer-centric extension services.
The inaugural function was held in presence of Dr. Rajbir Singh, Deputy Director General (Agricultural Extension), ICAR, New Delhi, as the guest of honour; Professor B. N. Tripathi, Vice-Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu; Dr. Parvender Sheoran, Director, ICAR-ATARI, Ludhiana and statutory officers of the University.
Dr. Amrish Vaid, Director Extension, SKUAST-Jammu, highlighted the pivotal role of KVKs as frontline extension institutions. He emphasized the importance of convergence between the research, extension and development departments for effective technology dissemination and farmer empowerment.
In his inaugural address, Javid Ahmad Dar lauded the contribution of KVKs in transforming agriculture at the grassroots level. He stressed the need to strengthen farmer-centric extension services, promote diversification, value addition and agri-entrepreneurship and ensure timely dissemination of scientific innovations to farmers. He also appreciated the role of SKUAST-Jammu and ICAR-ATARI in fostering sustainable and inclusive agricultural development in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
The Minister emphasized the urgent need to educate and sensitize the farmers about climate-related challenges and equip them with knowledge and skills to adopt climate-resilient agricultural practices.
The Minister underscored that awareness, capacity building and timely advisory services through institutions like Krishi Vigyan Kendras are essential to help the farmers adapt to changing climatic conditions and ensure sustainable agricultural growth
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Rajbir Singh highlighted the evolving role of KVKs in promoting climate-resilient agriculture, agri-entrepreneurship, digital extension and skill development. He underscored the importance of outcome-oriented extension approaches and accountability mechanisms for achieving sustainable agricultural growth.
In his presidential address, Vice-Chancellor Prof. B. N. Tripathi stated that SKUAST-Jammu has been consistently strengthening research–extension linkages through frontline demonstrations, on-farm trials and diagnostic services. He informed that the University has significantly expanded its national and international collaborations through MoUs.
