SKUAST-K committed to preserving Gurez's organic agriculture: Vice Chancellor

Bandipora, Oct 12: Vice Chancellor of Sher-i-Kashmir University of Agriculture Science and Technology (SKUAST) Kashmir, Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganie, emphasised the university's commitment to preserving and sustainably developing Gurez's organic agricultural produce during a visit to the region on Saturday.

While inaugurating an administrative cum laboratory building at the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) in Dawar, Gurez, Prof Ganie highlighted the varsity's efforts to develop Gurez's agriculture sustainably. The newly opened facility is one of twenty such centres across Jammu and Kashmir.

"Our focus is on developing niche crops of Gurez like potatoes, black cumin, corn, and lentils, as well as improving livestock," Prof Ganie stated. He added that the department is also working to preserve, conserve, and protect forest resources in Gurez, with a particular emphasis on medicinal and aromatic plants, aiming to bring them to a commercial scale.

The Vice-Chancellor stressed that the university's primary objective is to ensure farming is conducted using natural and organic methods. "We have instructed our scientists not to promote or use any sort of agrochemicals in Gurez," he said, underlining the commitment to protect the environment and conserve the valley's fragile biodiversity.

Dr Hilal, in charge of KVK Dawar Gurez, mentioned that the department is already working to educate farmers on scientific techniques for natural farming to increase production.

Addressing the recent crop devastation due to adverse weather conditions in Gurez, Prof Ganie acknowledged that this has affected crop production across the country. He assured that the university is exploring scientific methods to enhance crop yields despite these challenges.

The event was also attended by Director SKUAST Professor Din Mohd Makhdoomi, KVK in-charge Dr. Bilal, and other officials.