Fayaz Shabnam Pulwama December 13, 2023:
The Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) Kashmir celebrated the successful culmination of four one-week skill development training programs held at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Pulwama. The training sessions, covering various skill areas such as sheep farming, mushroom production, horticulture nursery raising, and fodder production, aimed at empowering rural unemployed youth. The valedictory function witnessed the enthusiastic participation of over 120 trainees.
Prof. M.A.A Sidique, Director of Education at SKUAST-K, emphasized the pivotal role of extension services and successful technology transfer from the lab to the land in rural economic development. Prof. D.M. Makhdoomi, Director Extension SKUAST-K, highlighted the university’s initiatives in uplifting the morale of unemployed rural youth, transforming them into potential employment generators.
The Chief Guest of the occasion, Deputy Commissioner Pulwama, Dr. Basharat Qayoom (IAS), commended the efforts of KVK in skill upgrading and technology dissemination. Dr. Qayoom spoke about the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), mentioning the various schemes available for farmers, numbering around 29. He expressed the District Administration’s commitment to supporting the implementation of HADP programs and praised the significant female participation in the training. Dr. Qayoom emphasized the untapped potential in sectors like agriculture, fisheries, and horticulture in District Pulwama and announced continued support for future training programs conducted by KVK.
Certificates were distributed among all participants, acknowledging their successful completion of the training programs. The event showcased the joint commitment of District Administration and SKUAST Kashmir in fostering rural development through skill enhancement, contributing to the overall socio-economic growth of the region. The initiative stands as a testament to the university’s dedication to empowering local communities and creating avenues for sustainable livelihoods.
