Anantnag, May 17: Mountain Research Centre for Field Crops (MRCFC) – Khudwani celebrated Oilseed (Sarson) Day on Wednesday.
Atal Dullo, Financial Commissioner/Addl. Chief Secretary, J&K, attended the programme as chief guest. Prof. Nazir A Ganie, Vice Chancellor SKUAST-Kashmir, was the guest of honour on the occasion. The programme was also attended by Director Research, Director Extension, Dean Agriculture, Dean Horticulture, ADC Kulgam, ADR Khudwani, scientists of SKUAST-K, officers of the Development Departments and a large no. of farmers.
During the field visit, the worthy chief guest was briefed about various research and seed production activities of the centre. Speaking on the occasion Dullo expressed hope that the Holistic Agricultural Development Programme (HADP) will help in developing critical rural infrastructure, build the capacity of farmers and enhance their access to technology and national & international markets.
He stressed upon the seed replacement as quality seed is the most important technological component to transform agriculture. He laid special emphasis on close coordination between SKUAST-Kashmir and Development Departments to achieve the desired objectives of HADP. Prof. Nazir A Ganie termed the current era a golden era for agriculture in J&K. He stressed upon effective implementation of HADP on the ground and asked the scientists to align all the research and extension activities as per the objectives of HADP.
He hoped that the ambitious HADP programme will bring an Ever-Green-Revolution in J&K and hopefully to the country as well. Director Research informed the audience about various sustainable and climate-resilient technologies and varieties developed at the centre.
He admired the outstanding oilseed research and seed production programme and advised the scientists to coordinate with KVKs and Development Departments for its large-scale popularization. Prof. N R Sofi presented a brief overview of the centre and assured the authorities that the centre will provide all the requisite technological backstopping to the Development Departments to bring prosperity to the farming community as envisioned under HADP.
