Kulgam, Oct 31: The Mountain Research Centre for Field Crops (MRCFC) organized a one-day awareness program on Tuesday, focusing on “Innovative rice farming for food & economic security” under the HADP project titled “Innovative Extension Approaches for Promoting Agriculture in J&K”. The event, attended by key officials and over 100 farmers, aimed to enlighten participants about innovative agricultural technologies essential for sustainable rice farming.
Dr. N.R. Sofi, Associate Director of Research at MRCFC-Khudwani, highlighted MRCFC’s vital role in crop improvement, crop protection, and sustainable soil health for the past eight decades. He discussed ongoing efforts to develop new technologies beneficial for the farming community, emphasizing the importance of these innovations in modern agriculture.
Tehsildar Qaimoh, Mr. Nisar Ahmad Wani, stressed the pivotal role of agriculture in ensuring food, nutritional, and economic security. Expressing concern about declining agricultural land due to rapid conversions, he urged farmers to comply with established land conversion rules. He encouraged farmers to tap into the abundant opportunities within agriculture, emphasizing its potential for employment and entrepreneurship.
The Sub-Divisional Agriculture Officer shed light on the objectives of the HADP and informed participants about various government schemes designed to enhance the farming community’s welfare. Dr. Intikhab Aalum Jehangir, Course Coordinator, emphasized the significance of adopting innovative agricultural technologies, particularly in rice farming, to improve resource use efficiency and ensure profitability and sustainability.
During technical sessions, experts covered topics such as soil health management, resource conservation, pest and disease management, innovative extension methodologies, and region-specific rice varieties for the Kashmir Valley. Farmers were introduced to high-yielding and input-responsive varieties like SR-4, SR-5, and Shalimar Sugandh developed by universities, which promise enhanced food security and economic profitability. A field visit showcased the impact of advanced agro-techniques on rice and other field crops, providing practical insights for the attending farmers.
