Srinagar, Oct 25: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) conducted three Entrepreneurship Awareness Programs focusing on ‘High-Tech Nursery Raising Techniques in Vegetable Cultivation’ to foster entrepreneurship and sustainable agriculture. These programs were held in Dadhsara and Nowdal villages of Pulwama district and Nadarbagh village of Ganderbal district.
Organized by SKUAST-K’s Division of Vegetable Science and sponsored by the Union MSME Ministry, these programs drew active participation from about 50 individuals, including unemployed youth and women, in each session.
Dr Ummyiah H Masoodi, Assistant Professor, Division of Vegetable Science, SKUAST-K, coordinated the programs, with an aim to raise awareness about entrepreneurship opportunities in vegetable nursery raising and encourage participants to explore this avenue for economic growth.
The primary goal of these awareness programs was to bridge gaps in the startup ecosystem and devise strategies to create a conducive environment for successful agri-business ventures. Expert lectures were delivered by specialists from the Division of Vegetable Science, including Dr Gazala Nazir, Dr Syed Berjes Zehra, and Dr Asima Amin. These experts illuminated various high-tech methods for nursery raising in vegetables, enlightening participants about innovative approaches to boost their income through the sale of vegetable seedlings. Moreover, the sessions delved into effective marketing strategies, aiming for broader outreach and market coverage.
At the conclusion of these programs, Dr Ummyiah H Masoodi expressed gratitude to Dr Haroon Naik, the nodal officer for MSME trainings at SKUAST-K, HOD, Division of Vegetable Science, and Dr Baseerat Afroza, acknowledging their invaluable support in making these initiatives possible. These programs underscore the university’s commitment to empowering local communities with knowledge and skills, fostering economic growth, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in the region.
