Five-day exposure programme focuses on high-density apple cultivation, vermicomposting and AI-powered digital advisory services
Srinagar : The Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) has organised an awareness-cum-exposure programme for 70 farmers from Kishtwar district to familiarise them with modern horticultural practices, scientific orchard management and technology-driven agricultural solutions.
Organised by the University’s Directorate of Extension in collaboration with the Department of Horticulture, Kishtwar, the programme forms part of a five-day educational exposure visit aimed at strengthening farmer-scientist interaction and improving agricultural productivity through the adoption of modern technologies.
The delegation comprised 60 farmers sponsored under the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) and 10 beneficiaries under the Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) scheme.
The programme focused on vermicomposting, scientific management of apple orchards and high-density apple cultivation, with experts sensitising participants to improved soil health, efficient resource utilisation and sustainable horticultural practices.
Farmers were also introduced to digital agricultural advisory services, particularly the University’s Artificial Intelligence-driven e-Plant Health Clinic App, which enables users to access expert guidance on crop health, pest and disease management, nutrient deficiencies and improved orchard practices.
The initiative seeks to familiarise farmers with technology-based solutions that can help identify crop-related problems at an early stage, reduce avoidable input costs and improve orchard productivity.
