KVK Sgr, DARS Budgam distribute seeds, tool kits under Tribal Sub-Plan

Srinagar, March 07: To enhance the welfare and livelihoods of the Scheduled Tribe population, KVK Srinagar and AICRP-Forage (DARS Budgam) Friday jointly organised a Seed Distribution cum Scientist-Farmer Interaction Programme at Nagbal Dara-A, Harwan. This initiative, conducted under the Tribal Sub-Plan, aims to support farmers by providing improved seeds and essential agricultural tools to boost productivity and sustainability.
As part of the programme, beneficiaries received combo packs of Shalimar Fodder Maize seeds and agricultural implement kits. Dr Saleem Khuroo (PI) and Dr Zahida Rashid (Co-PI) briefed attendees on the objectives of the scheme, emphasising its role in enhancing fodder production, ensuring food security for livestock, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in tribal areas.
A scientist-farmer interactive session followed, where experts discussed advanced production techniques and management strategies for the upcoming Kharif season crops. KVK Head Dr Simnani, along with Dr Ishtiyak Mir and Dr Rayees Wani, highlighted the importance of seed conservation, urging farmers to retain part of their harvest for future use. This initiative aims to establish a local seed multiplication chain, ensuring a self-reliant and sustainable supply of fodder maize seeds to meet regional demand. The event underscored the commitment of agricultural institutions to empowering tribal farmers with knowledge, resources, and modern farming techniques, fostering long-term growth and resilience in the Valley’s agricultural sector.