Director Extension Visits KVK Ganderbal for Awareness-cum-Seed Distribution Programme

An awareness-cum-seed distribution program was organized today at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Ganderbal, in collaboration with National Seed Project (NSP). More than 40 Tribal farmers received 10 qtls of high yielding SKUAST-K released variety of Paddy Seed (SR-4)

The program was graced by Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, Director Extension, SKUAST-K, as the chief guest. In her address, Prof. Kanth expressed deep appreciation for the efforts of KVK Ganderbal in reaching out to the tribal population of the district, which constitutes approximately 21% of Ganderbal’s total population. She emphasized the need for continued engagement and support to these communities through such outreach programs.

 Prof. Kanth also highlighted the economic significance of the rice variety SR-4, noting its superior performance in terms of productivity, disease resistance, thrashing ease, and cooking quality. She urged the tribal farmers to take advantage of such improved varieties for better returns. Furthermore, she encouraged them to actively participate in government-sponsored schemes, especially the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), aimed at strengthening the farming community.

 Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Ajaz Ahmad Malik, Senior Scientist and Head, KVK Ganderbal, emphasized the role of innovation and technology transfer in improving the livelihoods of tribal farmers. He reiterated KVK Ganderbal’s commitment to demonstrating farmer-friendly technologies specifically tailored for the tribal population of the district.