ICRISAT, SKUAST-K sign MoU to advance climate-resilient agri in J&K

Srinagar, July 09: International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Hyderabad, and Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir today signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at fostering collaborative research and academic exchange in the critical area of climate-resilient agriculture. The MoU was signed in Hyderabad by Director General of ICRISAT, Dr Himanshu Pathak, and the Vice-Chancellor of SKUAST-K, Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai.
This partnership marks a significant step towards addressing the challenges posed by climate change to agricultural productivity and food security, particularly in the ecologically sensitive Jammu & Kashmir. The collaboration will leverage the complementary strengths of both institutions: ICRISAT’s global expertise in dryland agriculture research and SKUAST-K’s deep understanding of the unique agro-climatic conditions and agricultural practices of the Himalayan region.
“We are delighted to partner with SKUAST-K, an institution renowned for its dedication to agricultural advancement in the challenging terrains of Jammu & Kashmir,” said Dr Himanshu Pathak, Director General of ICRISAT. “This MoU signifies our shared commitment to developing sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural solutions that will benefit farmers and enhance food security in the region. The exchange of knowledge and expertise between our scientists and students will be invaluable in this endeavor.”
The Vice-Chancellor of SKUAST-K, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, highlighting its potential to boost agricultural research and education in the region. “This partnership with ICRISAT, a world-leading agricultural research organisation, is a momentous occasion for SKUAST-K. It will open new avenues for our faculty and students to engage in cutting-edge research, particularly in climate-resilient agriculture, which is paramount for the sustainability of farming in Jammu & Kashmir. We look forward to a fruitful collaboration that will bring tangible benefits to our farming communities.”
Key areas of collaboration outlined in the MoU include: facilitating the exchange of faculty members between ICRISAT and SKUAST-K to share expertise, collaborate on research projects, and deliver specialized lectures; providing opportunities for students to participate in internships, research projects, and academic courses, thereby fostering a new generation of agricultural scientists equipped to address climate challenges; collaborating on research projects focused on developing and promoting climate-resilient crop varieties, sustainable farming practices, water management strategies, and innovative agricultural technologies suitable for the diverse agro-ecosystems of Jammu & Kashmir; organising joint workshops, training programs, and seminars to enhance the skills and knowledge of researchers, extension workers, and farmers in climate-resilient agriculture, and optimising the use of advanced research facilities, germplasm collections, and other resources available at both ICRISAT and SKUAST-K for mutual benefit.
This partnership is expected to accelerate the development and dissemination of climate-smart agricultural technologies and practices, leading to increased agricultural productivity, improved livelihoods for farmers, and enhanced environmental sustainability in Jammu & Kashmir. Both institutions are committed to working closely to achieve the objectives of the MoU and contribute significantly to global efforts in combating climate change through agricultural innovation.