Srinagar, Apr 24: Directorate of Extension in collaboration with All India Coordinated Research Projects (AICRP) organised a one-day awareness cum input distribution programme for farmers of District Pulwama sponsored by ICAR Indian Institute of Seed Science (IISS).
Vice Chancellor, Prof Nazir A. Ganai was the Chief Guest and Director Extension/Education, SKUAST-K, Prof Dil Mohammad Makhdoomi was the Guest of Honor. The programme was organized to promote sustainable agriculture practices and empower farmers.
Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-K emphasised the farmers to give due importance to rice production and follow the guidelines of the SKUAST-K. He gave a thorough briefing of the importance of seed replacement programme, advantages of new varieties of rice seeds released by the University and distributed rice seed Shalimar Rice 4 (SR-4) among farmers. By providing essential inputs and knowledge, the programme aims to enhance the resilience and productivity of farming community fostering sustainable development in the region.
Prof. Dil Mohammad Makhdoomi, Director Extension/Education highlighted the relative advantage of SR-4 variety and emphasized the need of adoption of villages where more than 8-10-year-old varieties are still cultivated. The entire village needs to be motivated to change the varieties of seeds for an increase in production and productivity of rice. He gave details of advantages of SR-4 variety along with agronomy practices. Later, the free seed distribution of SR-4 was done among farmers depending upon the land holding of each farmer. A total of 20 quintal SR-4 varieties was distributed.
Dr Asif Shikari welcomed the participants and dignitaries and outlined future programmes dedicated to the welfare of farming community, ensuring sustained support for their upliftment.
The farmers expressed satisfaction and thanked University Scientists in general and KVK Pulwama in particular for their farmer friendly activities.