Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) organised a programme for the students of Government Higher Secondary School, Baramulla, under the initiative I ‘HADP-20: Innovative Extension Approaches. The programme dealt with providing awareness about government schemes such as the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) and the J&K Competitiveness Improvement Project (JKCIP), along with giving invaluable insights into modern agricultural technologies, diverse career prospects in the agriculture and allied sectors.
The programme was conducted on the University’s campus, where the students of the school have been taken into the Bio technological labs, giving them an understanding of how technology is revolutionising crop improvement and agricultural productivity. The Students got a chance to ask questions and learn about research from the agricultural scientists at the forefront of agricultural innovation, including their visits to various orchards and providing practical exposure to modern horticultural practices.
Interestingly, the students have also been given exposure to the university’s sheep farms, providing a practical demonstration of model livestock farming practices and the significance of scientific animal management. Moreover, their visit to clinics provided them a glimpse into medical procedures, making the students understand the complexities of animal healthcare. Scientists interacted with the students, sharing their expertise and discussing potential career paths in veterinary medicine and animal husbandry. Furthermore, opportunities available within the agriculture and allied sectors were highly prioritised, going beyond traditional farming. Experts underscored how schemes such as HADP are changing the agricultural landscape of Jammu & Kashmir by encouraging innovation, technology adoption, and entrepreneurship. In addition, the Jammu and Kashmir Competitiveness Improvement Project (JKCIP) was also introduced as an incentive for improving competitiveness and climate resilience in the agricultural sector of Jammu and Kashmir, offering support for ardent agricultural entrepreneurs. This programme is dedicated to SKUAST-K’s ongoing commitment of associating with rural communities, inspiring young minds, and producing agricultural innovators and professionals from the next generation. Through linking the academic knowledge and practical application, and highlighting the significance of government support mechanisms, SKUAST-K seeks to unite rural youth to consider fulfilling and impactful careers in a sector that is crucial for the region’s economic growth and food security.
