Srinagar, March 20: The Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) Thursday organised a workshop-cum-training programme on “Cluster Front Line Demonstration – Planning, Layout, Monitoring and Data Analytics” under the CFLD Project on Oilseeds, sponsored by ICAR-ATARI Zone-I.
The event, held at the Directorate of Extension, Shalimar, was chaired by Professor Raihana H. Kanth, Director Extension/SAMETI and attended by Subject Matter Specialists from Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) of SKUAST-Kashmir, along with scientists from the Directorate of Extension.
Renowned experts, including Prof. A. H. Hakeem (Former Dean, FoA Wadura), Dr. Priti Mamgai (Scientist, ICAR-ATARI Zone-I, online), and Prof. Zahoor A. Dar (ADR, DARS Srinagar), provided valuable insights into effective planning and execution of Front-Line Demonstrations (FLDs).
Professor Raihana H. Kanth emphasised the critical role of FLDs in ensuring food and nutritional security, stressing the importance of site selection, farmer participation, and technology assessment before implementation. She urged KVK scientists to engage with farmers regularly, ensuring feedback is integrated into research initiatives for more impactful agricultural solutions.
In his expert lecture, Prof. A. H. Hakeem highlighted the importance of aligning FLD objectives with farmers’ needs, market dynamics and adoption potential. He underscored the need for strategic planning in the use of critical inputs to maximise outreach and technological adoption. Addressing the participants online, Dr. Priti Mamgai elaborated on Cluster Front Line Demonstrations’ significance in fostering sustainable growth in J&K’s oilseed sector.
Meanwhile, Prof. Zahoor A. Dar introduced newly released climate-resilient crop varieties, including cereals, pulses, fodder, and high-value crops like saffron. He assured participants that SKUAST-K has developed a robust seed system capable of withstanding unforeseen climatic challenges. The workshop reaffirmed SKUAST-K’s commitment to innovation in agricultural outreach and its mission to strengthen scientific interventions in farming practices for enhanced productivity and sustainability.
