SKUAST–K holds entrepreneurship skill programme on climate-smart agriculture

Srinagar, Dec 28: SKUAST–Kashmir organised a one-day Entrepreneurship Skill Programme (ESP) on entrepreneurship opportunities in climate-smart agriculture and weather-based agromet advisory services at BK Pora zone of Budgam district.

The programme was conducted by the Division of Agrometeorology, Faculty of Horticulture, Shalimar, under the MSME initiative of the Government of India, in collaboration with the Directorate of Agriculture Kashmir and the Agriculture Extension Office, BK Pora.

The initiative aimed to build awareness and practical skills among uneducated rural youth, with special emphasis on climate-resilient farming practices, weather-based decision-making and agrometeorology-led livelihood opportunities.

Participants were sensitised about the practical use of weather forecasts in farming, climate risk management, soil and water conservation practices, and the potential of village-level agri-enterprises and climate service initiatives. The focus was on enabling participants to reduce climate-induced farm losses while improving income stability through advisory-based entrepreneurship models.

More than 80 young participants took part in the programme and showed keen interest in climate-smart technologies, sustainable resource management and agromet-based advisory services. Dr Latief Ahmad, Training Coordinator from the Division of Agrometeorology, Faculty of Horticulture, Shalimar, coordinated the programme and highlighted the role of weather-based agromet advisories, digital platforms and MSME-supported ventures in strengthening farm resilience and promoting self-employment among rural youth and women.