SKUAST-Kashmir Opens High-Density Orchards, Reviews KVK Operations
Onlykashmir.in News Desk
Vice Chancellor of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Kashmir (SKUAST-K), Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganie, chaired the 13th Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) meeting of Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Anantnag, on Friday, during which the Kendra’s achievements were reviewed and strategies were formulated to strengthen agricultural development across South Kashmir. The meeting convened various stakeholder groups including Director Extension Dr. Rehana Habib Kanth, Registrar Prof. Azmat Alam, Associate Director Research Dr. Najeeb Rehman, heads of multiple KVKs from South Kashmir, Chief Agriculture Officer Anantnag Shahnawaz Ahmad Shah, officials from the Horticulture Department, scientists, agricultural entrepreneurs, and progressive farmers. The gathering reviewed the comprehensive functioning of KVK Anantnag and suggested strategic measures to strengthen its outreach and measurable impact among farming communities.
During the event, Prof. Ganie formally inaugurated high-density cherry and apple orchards developed by KVK Anantnag under the Holistic Agriculture Development Program (HADP), an initiative designed to promote modern horticultural practices and enhance farmer productivity. He also released the KVK Anantnag Annual Progress Report and corresponding Action Plan for future implementation. In his address to the gathering, Prof. Ganie emphasized that SKUAST-K, through its extensive network of Krishi Vigyan Kendras, has successfully brought scientific innovations and modern technologies directly to farmers, contributing meaningfully to improvements in the agricultural and horticultural sectors across Kashmir. He noted that following the successful promotion of high-density apple cultivation, the university has now initiated high-density cherry orchards and scientific watermelon cultivation through KVK Anantnag to diversify farm income sources and significantly enhance productivity among participating farmers. During the event, Prof.
Ganie personally interacted with agricultural entrepreneurs who showcased their farming innovations, equipment models, and entrepreneurial success stories, encouraging them to continue adopting technology-driven and market-oriented farming practices while assuring them of continued institutional support. The Vice Chancellor recognized the role of DD News Srinagar in disseminating agricultural information and presented a special award to senior journalist Javaid Sagar for his significant contributions to agricultural journalism and rural communication.
