SKUAST-K official stresses SHGs, FPOs, climate-resilient farming for rural empowerment
Budgam : Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Budgam, a constituent unit of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), celebrated Women Farmers Day at its campus in Harran, Budgam, with a focus on agricultural entrepreneurship, scientific farming practices and women’s economic empowerment.
The programme was attended by SKUAST-K Director Extension Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth as the chief guest, along with KVK scientists, subject matter specialists, officials from line departments and women farmers from different parts of the district.
Welcoming the participants, Head of KVK Budgam Prof. Bilal Ahmad Lone briefed the gathering about the Kendra’s achievements and extension activities aimed at supporting rural women through agricultural training and scientific interventions.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Kanth highlighted the contribution of women farmers to the rural economy and stressed the need to strengthen their role in agricultural decision-making and entrepreneurship.
She said the introduction of women-friendly farm tools and climate-resilient technologies was important for reducing physical drudgery and improving farm efficiency.
Prof. Kanth also encouraged women farmers to form Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) to improve access to resources, markets and government support, including benefits available under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP).
During a technical session, SKUAST-K scientist Prof. Bhinish Shakeel spoke about secondary agriculture, high-yielding crop varieties, organic farming practices and value addition. The session focused on improving farm productivity and creating additional income opportunities through the adoption of scientific methods.
The chief guest also interacted with participating women farmers and discussed challenges faced by them in agricultural activities. Farm inputs were distributed among the participants to support improved farming practices.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, with KVK Budgam reiterating its commitment to promoting scientific agriculture, strengthening extension services and supporting women farmers in developing sustainable rural livelihoods.
