Srinagar, Mar 04:The 9th Technology Exhibition-cum-Seed Sale Mela organised by Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir was inaugurated on Monday by the Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, ParshottamRupala and Lt Governor, J&K UT, Manoj Sinha at the Shalimar campus.
This year’s theme of the two-day mega event is ‘From Green and White Revolution to Blue Revolution – Cold Water Fisheries: A Game Changer in J&K. A Symposium on Pastoralist: Issues & Challenges was also held alongside the Exhibition in which a large number of pastoral community members from far off places of Kashmir participated.
Alka Upadhyaya, Secretary Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Ministry of Fisheries Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Government of India, Dr. O.P. Chaudhary, Joint Secretary, Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Ministry of Fisheries Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Government of India, Shri. Shailendra Kumar, Principal Secretary to Government, Agriculture Production Department, Dr. Syed Darakshan Andrabi, Chairperson, J&K Waqf Board, UT of J&K and HoDs, Directors of various department were also present during the inaugural event.
The Mela, a hallmark of agricultural excellence, witnessed the active participation of farmers, students, entrepreneurs, and policymakers from across the country. From showcasing innovative farming techniques to highlighting the latest advancements in cold-water fisheries, the event served as a catalyst for knowledge exchange and collaboration.
One of the highlights of the event was the symposium on pastoralists, where stakeholders engaged in robust discussions addressing the challenges faced by communities residing in far-flung areas of J&K. The platform provided a voice to the Gujjar Bakerwal community, shedding light on issues ranging from infrastructure development to access to essential services.
At the occasion the Union Minister and Lt Governor e-inaugurated SKUAST-K’s Krishi Radio Station at Shalimar and the Automatic Silage Making Plant at KVK, Ganderbal.
Shri. Rupala, in his remarks, commended Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, for his visionary leadership in steering the university towards innovation and entrepreneurship. He outlined various government schemes aimed at fostering the growth of SC/ST communities and encouraged project proposals for the development of cold-water fisheries. He also announced establishment of the aqua park in J&K.
Lieutenant Governor, in his address, underscored the significance of the Kisan Mela in driving agricultural prosperity. He elucidated various schemes aimed at enhancing farmers’ income and emphasized the pivotal role of institutions like SKUAST-Kashmir in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-K, Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai, in his address, gave an overview of the university activities. He welcomes the Union Minister and the Lt Governor for visiting SKUAST-K, saying this will encourage the SKUAST-K scientist, innovators and the farming community to work with more zeal.
Director Extension, Prof Dil Mohammad Makhdoomi, presented the vote of thanks.
