'Urban Harvest’ training programme empowers new wave of entrepreneurs

Srinagar, Dec 6: With an aim to foster a sustainable agricultural ecosystem by equipping participants with cutting-edge skills, an entrepreneurship training program titled ‘Urban Harvest: Mastering Soilless Cultivation for City Dwellers’ concluded at Haran in District Ganderbal and Sopore in District Baramulla.

The week-long training program witnessed participation from a diverse group of aspiring urban farmers, entrepreneurs and students.

The programme aimed to foster a sustainable agricultural ecosystem, introduced participants to modern soilless farming techniques, such as hydroponics and aquaponics, with a focus on sustainable food production in urban settings. It emphasized practical demonstrations, theoretical knowledge, and entrepreneurial guidance to help attendees establish their ventures in urban agriculture.

Experts in sustainable farming practices conducted sessions on topics like nutrient management, vertical farming setups, market linkages, and the economic potential of urban agriculture.

Dr Shahnaz Mufti, Professor, Division of Vegetable Science SKUAST-K, organizer of the programme, lauded the initiative of Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Govt. of India, New Delhi as a transformative step towards empowering youth and promoting self-reliance through urban agriculture.

She emphasised that soilless farming techniques could address the challenges of limited land and rising demand for fresh produce in cities.

The Programme Coordinator acknowledged the efforts and support of Vice Chancellor, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganiae, Nodal officer MSME, Prof. H.R.Naik, Dean FOH, Prof. Shabir Hussain Wani and HOD Vegetable Science, Dr Asif Bashir Shikari.

The Programme Coordinator thanked the sponsoring agency, Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Govt. of India, New Delhi for sponsoring such programmes for the larger benefit of the farming community.