Srinagar, June 13: One-month Skill Development training on “Tractor Operator”, sponsored by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer’s Welfare, New Delhi and organized by Division of Farm Machinery and Power Engineering, College of Agricultural Engineering & Technology kick started at SKUAST- Kashmir.
Twenty-five (25) unemployed youth from the district Ganderbal and Budgam are attending this training programme. The training aims to equip participants with the necessary knowledge and practical skills required to operate and maintain tractor and other agricultural machinery effectively and to provide them opportunity to earn their livelihood.
The training curriculum covers various aspects, including tractor maintenance, safety protocols, efficient usage of machinery, and adherence to environmental and agricultural regulations. The Officiating Vice Chancellor SKUAST-K Prof. M.A.A. Siddique, who was the Chief Guest of the inaugural session, in his remarks spoke about the importance of farm mechanization and highlighted the role of a trained tractor operators for improving the mechanization potential of the region. He assured the participants of providing best learning platform during the conduct of these training programmes.
He also informed the participants about various schemes of GOI/ UTs in Agriculture and allied sectors which shall help trainees in improving their employment potential. Prof A.H. Mughal, acting Director Research while speaking on the occasion highlighted the importance of such training programmes and emphasised that these kind of training programmes not only benefit the individual participant but also contribute to the overall development of the agricultural sector in the region. Associate Dean, College of Agriculture Engineering & Technology, Prof Rohitashw Kumar while welcoming the trainees highlighted the importance of skilled tractor drivers in promoting agricultural productivity and ensuring safe and efficient operations.
HoD (FMPE) and Course Director Prof Jagvit Dixit while presenting a detailed overview of training programme, stated that trainees will be trained in different aspects of operation, repair and maintenance of tractors and efficient use of farm machines. He highlighted the importance and necessity of this training programme in enhancing the skill development of rural unemployed youth. HOD (SWCE) Dr. Junaid N. Khan briefly explained the importance of skill training and employment generation. Dr. Kalay Khan, Asstt. Prof. presented the vote of thanks.
