JAMMU, JULY 12, 2020: Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu, Professor J.P. Sharma, in his maiden visit to Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Kathua of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu, inaugurated an Agripreneur’s Meet.

Dr. S.K. Gupta, Director Extension, Dr. Amrish Vaid, Chief Scientist & Nodal Officer, Mega Seed Project, Dr. Rakesh Sharma, Senior Scientist, Dr. Narinder Panotra, FPO members and progressive farmers were also present.

In his inaugural address, Prof. J.P. Sharma emphasised upon value addition, processing and marketing of farm produce to achieve the aim of doubling farmer income.

Pointing towards 15-20 % of post-production losses, he suggested for surplus management by involving farmers in processing activities for increasing share in consumer’s rupee. He suggested KVK to work on the principle of “One Commodity One District” as envisaged by Hon’ble Prime Minister of India. He further suggested for establishment of some compulsory demo units in KVK such as Integrated Farming System, Value addition and processing and Farmers participatory seed production etc. He also directed to work in convergence mode with involvement of state departments, NABARD and ICAR institutes.

Meanwhile, the Vice Chancellor also visited Integrated Farming System model of S. Jaswant Singh, a Progressive Farmer of KVK, Kathua and inspected technology park of KVK and had discussion on new varieties introduced by KVK.

Dr. S.K Gupta, Director Extension congratulated KVK, Kathua for getting Zonal Award in ICAR meeting and offered full cooperation from directorate to implement mandatory activities of KVK.

Dr. AmrishVaid discussed the seed production programme of the university and linkage with KVK Kathua.

Dr. Vishal Mahajan, Senior Scientist & Head KVK Kathua gave a brief presentation on KVK activities including training programmes, front line demonstrations and extension activities. He also discussed success stories and constraints faced by KVK in implementing activities for the farmers.

During the Agripreneurs’ meet, successful entrepreneurs in the area of mushroom floriculture, honey, vermicomposting, turmeric etc. shared their experiences with the fellow farmers.

Dr. Anamika Jamwal carried out the proceedings of the programme and Dr. Berjesh Ajrawat presented vote of thanks. Others who participated in the programme include Dr. Pawan K. Sharma, Dr. Vijay Kumar Sharma, Dr. Ajay Kumar, Vijay Singh, Bharat Bhushan and Sahil Sharma.