Srinagar : The Division of Floriculture and Landscaping at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, in partnership with the Department of Floriculture, Gardens and Parks of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday conducted a one-day capacity-building program aimed at progressive flower growers from the Kashmir Valley.
Sponsored by the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH), the event attracted approximately 80 participants and focused on modern production technologies, entrepreneurship, and marketing strategies within the commercial floriculture sector. The training underscored the significance of floriculture as a burgeoning industry with substantial potential for job creation and economic development. Attendees were introduced to contemporary trends in flower cultivation, value addition, and establishing market connections. Key speakers, including Professor F.U. Khan and Deputy Director Shaikh Rasool, emphasized the importance of scientific practices and informed growers about government schemes and financial support available for enhancing commercial floriculture in the region. Professor Qazi Altaf Hussain outlined the program’s objectives and proposed a sustainable development roadmap for the floriculture sector in Jammu and Kashmir. Chief Guest Professor Raihana Habib Kant highlighted the role of such training in enhancing growers’ skills and encouraging students to consider commercial floriculture as a viable career path. She noted the rising demand for ornamental plants and flowers, driven by evolving lifestyle preferences, which presents significant opportunities for new entrepreneurs. The program also featured successful student-led startups from SKUAST-K, such as ARJ Innovations, Gul Poosh, and Florenza, where young entrepreneurs shared their experiences and insights into the challenges and opportunities within the floriculture industry. Their achievements, including the cultivation of 1.5 lakh chrysanthemum plants within two months, showcased the profitability of commercial floriculture, with an impressive economic return ratio of 1:10. This initiative aligns with Vice Chancellor Professor Nazir Ahmad Ganai’s vision to foster innovation and entrepreneurship at SKUAST-K, in accordance with the National Education Policy (NEP). The university has facilitated the registration of various student and faculty startups in agriculture and related sectors. The program concluded with an exposure visit to the Division’s floriculture farm, where participants observed extensive chrysanthemum cuttings and engaged with experts on scientific cultivation practices.
