Skill Development training programme for farmers held at Anantnag

Srinagar, Aug 22: Director of Sericulture J&K Aijaz Ahmed Bhat Friday graced the concluding ceremony of a three-day Skill Development Training Programme for farmers held in Anantnag district of South Kashmir where farmers were imparted training about various government initiatives and schemes. As per a statement issued here, the programme was designed to impart practical knowledge and hands-on training in modern sericulture techniques to silkworm rearers and farmers, with a focus on enhancing productivity, quality, and sustainability in silk cocoon production. In addition, participants were made aware of various schemes and facilities provided by the Sericulture Development Department, J&K. The training programme witnessed participation from local farmers and silkworm rearers in large numbers. The training initiative was meticulously organised by the Department of Sericulture, J&K, under the ambit of the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), aiming to transform the agricultural landscape of the Union Territory. Through this programme, participants were introduced to both foundational and advanced methodologies in silkworm rearing, including scientific cocoon management, disease prevention, mulberry cultivation, and post-harvest handling practices. The overarching goal was to empower stakeholders with the tools and techniques necessary to elevate the silk sector and improve their socio-economic conditions.In addition to technical training, the programme also served as a platform to educate farmers about various government schemes, financial incentives, and infrastructural support offered by the Department of Sericulture. These schemes are tailored to supplement income, promote entrepreneurship, and ensure the long-term viability of sericulture as a sustainable livelihood option. During the concluding ceremony, Bhat distributed specialised toolkits and training certificates to the participants, recognising their commitment to skill enhancement and professional growth. He lauded the initiative as a pivotal step towards capacity building and economic empowerment of the rural farming community.Speaking on the occasion, Bhat emphasised the transformative potential of such capacity-building programmes. “Skill development is the cornerstone of agricultural modernisation. These training programmes are not only instrumental in upgrading the technical know-how of our silkworm rearers but also play a critical role in ensuring sustainable livelihoods and higher income generation. It is essential that similar initiatives are replicated across both Kashmir and Jammu divisions to ensure that every silkworm rearer in the Union Territory benefits from the HADP framework,” he said.