SKUAST-K inaugurates 7-Day Training Prog on “Soil Microbes

Srinagar : The Division of Soil Science, Faculty of Horticulture, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), Shalimar, inaugurated a 7-Day Training Programme on “Soil Microbes: The Silent Architects of Fertility” at the university’s Shalimar Campus.
The programme is aimed at strengthening scientific understanding of soil microbial communities and their role in maintaining soil fertility, nutrient cycling, and sustainable agricultural productivity.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, Director Extension & Dean Horticulture, as the Chief Guest.
In her inaugural address, Prof. Kanth highlighted the indispensable role of soil microbes in modern agriculture. She emphasized the need for developing practical strategies to utilize beneficial microbes for improving soil health and enhancing crop productivity, particularly in the context of climate change and declining soil fertility.
Earlier, Prof. Muzaffar A. Malik, Head, Division of Soil Science, in his address outlined the objectives of the training programme. He stressed the importance of capacity building for researchers, and field level professionals in microbial technologies, biofertilizers, and soil health assessment.
The week-long training programme, scheduled from 20 to 26 November 2025, includes a comprehensive blend of expert lectures, handson laboratory demonstrations, exposure visits, and practical sessions designed to enhance participants’ understanding of soil microbial technologies. The programme covers a wide range of topics, including the isolation and identification of soil microbes, microbial biomass assessment and soil enzyme activities, the application of microbial consortia in agriculture, recent advances in soil microbiome research, and the development and field application techniques of biofertilizers.
Together, these components aim to equip participants with both theoretical insights and practical skills essential for improving soil health and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
Faculty members, research scholars, extension personnel, and students from various divisions of SKUAST-K participated in the inaugural programme.