Training programme on integrated pest management begins at SKUAST-K

Srinagar, Dec 3: The Division of Social and Basic Sciences, Faculty of Forestry, Sher-i-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST-K), today inaugurated a six-week training programme on "Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in Crops Using Ecofriendly Approaches" at the Government College for Women (GCW), MA Road, Srinagar. The programme is sponsored by the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) and aims to promote sustainable agricultural practices.

The event was graced by eminent academicians and experts. Prof. Wilayat Hussain Rizvi, Registrar of Cluster University, served as the Guest of Honor. In his address, he emphasized the critical need for ecofriendly approaches in agriculture and horticulture to ensure the sustainability of resources. Highlighting the adverse impacts of chemical pesticides on the environment, human health, and biodiversity, he stressed that IPM provides a holistic, sustainable solution to these challenges.

Prof. Rubeena, Principal of GCW, MA Road, was the Chief Guest for the occasion. She described IPM as a systematic and science-driven approach to pest control that integrates prevention, monitoring, and control strategies to minimize environmental harm while reducing dependence on chemical pesticides.

In his keynote address, Prof. Syed Naseem Geelani, Head of the Division of Social and Basic Sciences at SKUAST-K, outlined the significance of adopting ecofriendly pest management methods. “Eco-friendly approaches aim to work in harmony with nature, ensuring that pest management practices are both effective and environmentally sustainable. Botanical pesticides, such as neem oil and pyrethrum, offer safe alternatives to synthetic chemicals, helping to protect fragile ecosystems,” he said. Prof. Geelani expressed gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor of SKUAST-K, the Director of Planning, and the Dean of the Faculty of Forestry for their unwavering support and acknowledged MSME’s sponsorship of the training program.

Prof. Mushtaq Ahmad, Head of the Department of Zoology at GCW, emphasized that ecofriendly IPM is more than a pest control strategy. “It is a commitment to sustainable agriculture. By adopting these practices, we can ensure food security, enhance farmers' livelihoods, and protect the planet for future generations,” he noted.

Dr. Showket A. Dar, Coordinator of the program, urged stakeholders to champion the integration of traditional knowledge with modern science to foster a resilient and sustainable agricultural ecosystem.