Srinagar, Jan 13: The six-week skill training program on Entrepreneurship through the Establishment of Mini Soil Testing Laboratories concluded Monday on January 13 with a grand valedictory ceremony held at Faculty of Agriculture, Wadura Campus, SKUAST-Kashmir.
The training programme, aimed at fostering entrepreneurial spirit and enhancing technical expertise in soil testing, saw enthusiastic participation from 25 aspiring entrepreneurs, and agri-professionals. The programme organized by Division of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry was sponsored by Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME).
It focused on equipping participants with the knowledge and skills required to establish and operate Mini soil testing laboratories, empowering them to address the challenges of soil health management while creating sustainable business opportunities. The main highlights of the training Programme were the hands-on sessions on soil sample collection, testing techniques, and result interpretation, expert lectures on soil fertility management and its impact on agricultural productivity, business development workshops focusing on establishing and managing mini soil testing labs as entrepreneurial ventures and field demonstrations to provide practical exposure to the participants. The valedictory event was graced by the presence of Professor Jamal Ahmad, who applauded the initiative, stating, that the program was a significant step towards promoting sustainable agriculture and fostering entrepreneurship in rural and urban areas alike. The knowledge and skills imparted would empower individuals to contribute effectively to agricultural development while creating meaningful livelihood opportunities. The participants shared their experiences and insights gained from the program, and expressed gratitude for the opportunity. Dr Inayat Mustafa Khan, Training Coordinator, stated that the initiative aimed to inspire participants to become change-makers in their communities. Dr. Rehana Rasool welcomed the guests and participants and Dr. Inayat Mustafa Khan proposed the vote of thanks.