ICAR-IGFRI, sheep husbandry team up to empower sheep farmers in Rafiabad village

Baramulla, Nov 01: In a collaborative effort, scientists from the ICAR-Indian Grassland Fodder Research Institute (IGFRI) Srinagar station and experts from the Sheep Husbandry Department, Baramulla, organised an informative awareness programme in the remote village of Mund Daji here.
The event aimed to educate the local farming community – predominantly consisting of the tribal Gujar community and pastoralists – on best practices for cultivating high-yield nutritive fodder crops.
Prominent figures at the event included Dr Sheeraz Saleem Bhat, Senior Scientist In Charge at IGFRI, Dr Suheel Ahmad (Senior Scientist in Forestry), and Dr Nazim Hamid Mir (Senior Scientist in Agronomy). The Sheep Husbandry Department was represented by Dr Showkat Ahmed, Dr Syed Imran, and Dr Saima.
ICAR-IGFRI scientists shared valuable insights on scientific cultivation practices, fodder genetic resources, and the importance of local fodder crops. Emphasis was placed on ensuring a continuous supply of nutritious green fodder, particularly during harsh winter months.
Dr Showkat Ahmed, District Sheep Husbandry Officer, highlighted the department’s commitment to providing quality healthcare services and adopting best husbandry practices. He praised the collaborative efforts, acknowledging the scientists’ outreach to farmers in far-flung areas.
During the programme, scientists distributed improved fodder seed kits, medicine items, and supplements among the attending sheep breeders.
Farmers expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts and urged the continuation of such awareness programs for their benefit. They said this joint initiative reflects a commitment to sustainable sheep production and underscores the importance of disseminating agricultural technologies to remote farming communities.