SKUAST-K organises training programme on promotion, cultivation of bamboo in Kashmir

Srinagar, Nov 5: The Division of Forest Products and Utilization, Faculty of Forestry, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) organised a one-day training programme on “Promotion and Cultivation of Bamboo in Kashmir.”

The programme aimed to create awareness among farmers about the economic and ecological potential of bamboo cultivation in the region. The event was graced by Member of Parliament, Mian Altaf Ahmad, as the chief guest, said an official press release.

In his address, the Member of Parliament appreciated the efforts of the Faculty of Forestry, SKUAST-K, for their continuous contribution towards the upliftment of tribal and rural communities through innovative forestry initiatives. “Bamboo can be a game-changer for the economy of hill farmers. Such programmes bring scientific knowledge to the grassroots level,” he remarked.

Dean, Faculty of Forestry, Prof. Arshid Hussain Mughal, highlighted the importance of bamboo as a fast-growing, sustainable resource that supports livelihoods and environmental conservation. He emphasized the university’s commitment to promoting green and income-generating forestry practices across Jammu and Kashmir.

Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC), Ganderbal, Manzoor Ahmad Bhat, , lauded SKUAST-K’s outreach initiatives and said that bamboo cultivation aligns with the government’s vision for sustainable rural development and employment generation. Head, Division of Forest Products and Utilization, Prof. Parvez Ahmad Sofi, presented the overview of the training programme and discussed various aspects of bamboo propagation, management, and utilisation.

Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Ganderbal, Iqbal Rasool Dar, highlighted the ecological importance of bamboo in soil conservation and biodiversity enhancement. He stressed that bamboo can play a significant role in combating land degradation in Kashmir’s hilly terrains. On the occasion, a book titled “Commercial Medicinal Plants of Kashmir Himalayas” authored by Dr. Tahir Mushtaq and Dr. P. A. Sofi, HoD (FPU) was released by the Member of Parliament along with other dignitaries. The event also witnessed the distribution of agricultural tool kits among 50 progressive farmers, an initiative aimed at supporting their participation in bamboo cultivation and related forestry enterprises.