Budgam, Oct 24: The All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Pulses, Srinagar Centre at Dryland Agricultural Research Station (DARS), Rangreth, in collaboration with the Directorate of Agriculture, Lal Mandi, organized a Tribal Sub-Plan Program at Chrari Sharif, District Budgam.
Sponsored by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) – Indian Institute of Pulse Research, Kanpur, the program saw the participation of around 25 tribal farmers from the region. This initiative reflects SKUAST-Kashmir’s commitment to support tribal farmers.
The event commenced with a welcome address by Javaid Ahmad Mattoo, Agriculture Extension Officer (AEO), Cherari Sharif, who warmly welcomed the guests from SKUAST-Kashmir and the participating farmers.
He emphasized the importance of such outreach programs in helping farmers gain access to scientific knowledge and improved agricultural practices. He encouraged the farmers to utilize the resources and inputs being provided to enhance their farming techniques. Prof S.A. Dar, Principal Investigator Pulses gave an informative presentation on the significance of Rabi pulses, including Field Pea and Lentil, highlighting their essential role in providing balanced nutrition.
He stressed that pulses are not only an important source of plant-based protein but also contribute to improving soil fertility through nitrogen fixation. Dr. Latief Ahmad, In-charge of the Tribal Sub-Plan Program at AICRP Srinagar Centre, delivered an in-depth session on the latest package of practices for Rabi crops. He highlighted the importance of timely sowing, seed treatment, modern irrigation techniques, and disease management strategies to boost crop yield and resilience.
Dr. Ahmad also introduced biofertilizer use to improve the sustainability of pulse farming. As part of the program, various essential farming inputs were distributed among the farmers. These included tarpaulins, pulse seeds, garden tools, and literature on best practices for Rabi pulses cultivation. These tools and resources were aimed at enhancing the farmers’ ability to adopt improved methods and increase their agricultural productivity.
The program concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Mr. Tariq A. Sheikh, Agriculture Extension Assistant (AEA), Chrari Sharif. He expressed gratitude to the organizing institutions, ICAR, the Indian Institute of Pulse Research, and the farmers for their active participation.
