Chief Secretary applauds SKUAST–K’s Bagh-e-Gul-i- Dawood

Srinagar, Nov 10: Chief Secretary Atal Duloo visited Bagh-i-Gul Dawood of SKUAST-K Shalimar campus.

He was received by the Vice Chancellor of SKUAST-Kashmir Prof Nazir A. Ganie and the HoD Division of Floriculture. Bagh-i-Gul Dawood was thrown open on October 31. “It boasts a collection of 60 varieties, showcasing the institution’s commitment to floriculture excellence. Pertinently this concept of Bagh-i-Gul Dawood can be replicated at a large scale as an autumn tourist destination similar to Tulip Garden. Chrysanthemum (Gul Dawood) flowers bloom from September to ending November thus offer a potential for colourful autumn destinations in J&K,” SKUAST-K said in a statement.

Highlighting this vision for promoting autumn tourism, Chief Secretary expressed his desire for establishing Bagh-e-Gul-i-Dawood garden at Mansbal, as a new seasonal attraction for tourists. Additionally, he emphasised the need for a dedicated Centre of Excellence for Tulips to cater to the local and national demands for these sought-after blooms.

Chief Secretary lauded SKUAST-Kashmir's achievements, especially the impressive diversity in Chrysanthemum varieties and the advanced high-tech IoT-driven greenhouse facilities that underpin the SKUAST floriculture and landscaping projects. Notably, he acknowledged the SKUAST-Kashmir dedication to implementing sustainable and innovative technology that align with horticultural vision for UT of Jammu and Kashmir.

Recognising the potential for SKUAST-Kashmir to lead in floriculture advancements on a larger scale, Duloo directed the faculty and scientists to redouble efforts in promoting UT of Jammu and Kashmir to the forefront of Floriculture commerce in the country.