Srinagar: The Division of Silviculture & Agroforestry, Faculty of Forestry, SKUAST-Kashmir, conducted a one-day entrepreneurship awareness programme on “Exploration, Cultivation, and Conservation of Lesser-Known Wild Tree Species for Livelihood and Entrepreneurship Development” at Benhama, Ganderbal. Supported by the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME), the event aimed to highlight the economic potential of lesser-known wild tree species.
The programme was attended by over fifty undergraduate and postgraduate students. Delivering the introductory remarks, Dr. Nazir A. Pala, Associate Professor and Programme Coordinator, emphasized the significance of cultivating wild tree species for enhancing livelihoods and fostering entrepreneurship, particularly among students and unemployed youth.
Dr. G.M. Bhat, Professor and Head, Division of Silviculture & Agroforestry, delivered a comprehensive lecture on the value of wild and lesser-known fruits in livelihood activities. He underscored the importance of such initiatives in addressing challenges faced by farmers and stakeholders while presenting practical solutions.
The participants were later taken on a field exposure visit to a wild fruit nursery and plantations. Accompanied by scientists, they were given demonstrations on cultural practices for raising wild fruits and understanding their economic viability.
In his concluding remarks, Dr. Nazir A. Pala expressed gratitude to the sponsoring agency MSME, as well as to the University Administration, Nodal Officer, Director Planning and Monitoring Prof. Haroon Naik, and Dean Faculty of Forestry for their continuous support and guidance.
The programme successfully raised awareness about the entrepreneurial potential of cultivating lesser-known wild species and their role in sustainable economic development.
