CSIR-IIIM conducts farmer training, seed distribution programmes in Jammu

Jammu, Jan 25: The CSIR Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (IIIM) conducted two farmer training and seed distribution programmes under the CSIR Floriculture Mission, benefiting 255 farmers from Jammu and Samba regions.

The programmes were held at CSIR IIIM Jammu and Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Samba, providing comprehensive training on advanced crop production techniques, nursery management, disease and pest control, and marketing strategies for marigold and other floricultural crops.

Dr Zabeer Ahmed, Director of CSIR IIIM Jammu, explained the mission's goal to capitalize on business opportunities in the floriculture sector by focusing on sustained production of quality flowers suitable to local agro climatic conditions.

Er Abdul Rahim, Chief Scientist, advocated for cluster-based farming and encouraged young entrepreneurs to develop innovative business ideas. Dr Shahid Rasool, Nodal Scientist, emphasised diversifying marketing strategies and proposed involving women through Self-Help Groups in value-added techniques like resin art and floral jewelry.

Tajinder Singh Wazir, President, J&K Flower Growers Association, stressed the importance of adopting scientific protocols and understanding market demand. Participants received high-yielding marigold seeds and were exposed to practical demonstrations by experts in floriculture, agronomy, plant pathology, and agricultural extension.

The training aimed to enhance farmers' knowledge, improve crop yield and quality, develop market-responsive cultivation strategies, and promote entrepreneurship in the floriculture sector.