KVK Srinagar holds mega agriculture awareness mela to empower farmers

Srinagar, Sep 11: Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Srinagar organised a Mega Agriculture Awareness cum Kisan Mela today at Bakshipora, Eidgah, under the aegis of the Directorate of Extension in collaboration with the J&K Rural Development Society.

The event was inaugurated by Mubarak Gul, MLA Eidgah Constituency, and Prof. Rehana H. Kanth, Director Extension, SKUAST-K, in the presence of Yunus Mubarak Gul, Chairman J&K Rural Development Society, and Prof. Shamim A. Simnani, Head KVK Srinagar.

MLA Mubarak Gul highlighted the transformative potential of the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), saying it could ensure self-sufficiency in agriculture, generate employment, strengthen the farming community, boost the economy, and reduce dependence on imports. He lauded KVK Srinagar for translating scientific research into practical field applications and supporting farmers in adopting innovative practices.

Prof. Rehana Kanth emphasised that Qamarwari, a prominent vegetable belt of Srinagar, holds immense potential to become the “Vegetable Bowl of Kashmir.” She urged farmers to adopt scientific and sustainable cultivation methods to ensure year-round supply of fresh produce, enhance incomes, and strengthen food security.

Prof. Shamim Simnani highlighted KVK Srinagar’s role in bridging the gap between research and farmers’ fields. He acknowledged the support of the Vice Chancellor for HADP, noting its pivotal role in promoting agriculture as a sustainable and entrepreneurial sector. Farmers expressed appreciation, saying such initiatives boost awareness and confidence in adopting modern and profitable farming methods.