JAMMU, FEBRUARY 12: The second day of the Agriculture Summit and Kisan Mela–2026 at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu (SKUAST-Jammu) witnessed vibrant stakeholder engagement through technical deliberations, farmer-centric programmes and public outreach events, reinforcing the University’s commitment to sustainable agricultural development.
A key highlight was the Industry–Academia–Farmer Meet held at the Main Campus, Chatha, with participation from over 30 industries, agri-startups and Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs). The meet provided a collaborative platform for interaction among industry leaders, academicians, researchers, students and farmers.
In his inaugural address, the Vice-Chancellor Prof B.N. Tripathi emphasised the need for sustained industry–academia collaboration to ensure that research, innovation and education remain aligned with field and market realities. He highlighted initiatives such as MoUs with leading industries, appointment of Professors of Practice, industry-sponsored internships and the establishment of the Bayer Learning Centre, reiterating SKUAST-Jammu’s focus on employability, entrepreneurship and innovation.
The Guest of Honour, Dr Owais Ahmad, Director, Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Kashmir and Additional Charge Special Secretary, Planning, Development & Monitoring Department, Government of J&K, stressed the importance of structured internship programmes and active industry participation in shaping job-ready agriculture graduates.
Two technical sessions and panel discussions were chaired by Dr Owais Ahmad, with Dr S.K. Gupta, Director Research and Dr Sudhakar Dwivedi, Director Students’ Welfare, as Co-Chairs. Moderated by Dr Anil Bhat and Dr Pawan Sharma, the sessions underscored the need for bridging the industry–academia gap through collaborative research, internships and continuous stakeholder engagement. The meet was coordinated by Dr Sanjay Guleria, Dean, Faculty of Basic Sciences.
The day also featured a popular dog show. Additionally, the Agrometeorology Section, SKUAST-Jammu, organised a farmer awareness programme on “Resource Conservation and High Income through Agro-Advisory Services” under Grameen Krishi Mausam Sewa, attended by over 100 farmers. Shri O.P. Vidyarthi, Member, J&K and Ladakh Biodiversity Council, emphasised the role of trees in combating climate change. On the occasion, 210 mango and citrus fruit plants were distributed among farmers.
Various sports and recreational events further added to the festive spirit of the Kisan Mela.
