Pattan (Baramulla) |Aug, 17: The Directorate of Extension at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) has collaborated with The Harvesting Harmony Farmer Producer Organisation Cooperative Ltd. to conduct a mobilisation drive as part of the Upscaling Collectivisation Component of the IFAD-sponsored Jammu and Kashmir Competitiveness Improvement of Agriculture and Allied Sectors Project (JKCIP).
The event attracted over 185 farmers and prospective members, focusing on raising awareness about Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) and promoting collectivisation to enhance sustainable agricultural development. Prof. (Dr.) Raihana Habib Kanth, the chief guest and Director Extension at SKUAST-K, underscored the importance of ongoing support, capacity building, and institutional strengthening for rural collectives. She highlighted that FPOs can facilitate farmers’ access to modern technologies, quality inputs, institutional credit, and organized markets, thereby improving farm incomes and fostering resilient agricultural enterprises. Additionally, she emphasized SKUAST-K’s role in providing continuous technical guidance and extension support to farmer institutions throughout Jammu and Kashmir. Dr. Waseem Hassan Raja, Senior Scientist and Head of KVK Baramulla, reinforced the significance of scientific farming and collective marketing in enhancing farmers’ economic conditions, particularly encouraging women and rural youth to engage in FPO activities. Dr. Mohammad Iqbal Bhat, Coordinator for the Upscaling Collectivisation component, outlined the objectives of the initiative, stressing the need for increased membership and active participation to create robust and self-sustaining producer organisations capable of tackling production and marketing challenges. The programme included an interactive session where farmers posed questions regarding FPO membership, governance, and the advantages of collectivisation. Experts addressed these inquiries, motivating eligible farmers to join the FPO and contribute to its sustainability. The management of The Harvesting Harmony Farmer Producer Organisation Cooperative Ltd. expressed appreciation for the participation of farmers and officials.
