Srinagar, Dec 23: The Division of Social and Basic Sciences, Faculty of Forestry, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST-K), Monday inaugurated a week-long training program on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in Crops Using Ecofriendly Approaches and at the Government College for Women (GCW), Srinagar.
A statement issued here said that the program is sponsored by the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) and aims to promote sustainable agricultural practices. Prof. Yasmeen Farooq, Principal of GCW, MA Road, was the Chief Guest for the occasion. She described IPM as a systematic and science-driven approach to pest control that integrates prevention, monitoring, and control strategies to minimize environmental harm while reducing dependence on chemical pesticides.
In his keynote address, Prof. Syed Naseem Geelani, Head of the Division of Social and Basic Sciences at SKUAST-K, outlined the significance of adopting ecofriendly pest management methods. “Ecofriendly approaches aim to work in harmony with nature, ensuring that pest management practices are both effective and environmentally sustainable. Botanical pesticides, such as neem oil and pyrethrum, offer safe alternatives to synthetic chemicals, helping to protect fragile ecosystems,” he said. Prof. Geelani expressed gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor of SKUAST-K, the Director of Planning, and the Dean of the Faculty of Forestry for their unwavering support and acknowledged MSME’s sponsorship of the training program.
Prof. Mushtaq Ahmad, Head of the Department of Zoology at GCW, emphasized that ecofriendly IPM is more than a pest control strategy. “It is a commitment to sustainable agriculture. By adopting these practices, we can ensure food security, enhance farmers' livelihoods, and protect the planet for future generations,” he noted.
The event was graced by eminent academicians and experts. Prof. Khursheed Ahmad Shah, Head,Wildlife Sciences, FoF said that in this era when “we are witnessing Man Animal conflict is because we have encroached upon the territory of Wildlife, now they are approaching our habitat resulting in Man Animal Conflict.” He emphasized the critical need for ecofriendly approaches in agriculture and horticulture to ensure the sustainability of resources. Highlighting the adverse impacts of chemical pesticides on the environment, human health, and biodiversity, he stressed that IPM provides a holistic, sustainable solution to these challenges. This training program represents a vital step towards promoting environmentally sustainable agricultural practices, ensuring long-term benefits for farmers, ecosystems, and society at large. Dr. Showket A. Dar, Coordinator of the program, urged stakeholders to champion the integration of traditional knowledge with modern science to foster a resilient and sustainable agricultural ecosystem.
The program proceedings were anchored by Dr. Tawseef, Assistant Professor at GCW, and concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Shabeer Ahmad Wani, Assistant Professor at the college.
