University News

Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor Addresses 9th Convocation of SKUAST-Jammu JAMMU, August 4, 2025:

Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu (SKUAST-Jammu), a premier ICAR-accredited ‘Grade A’ institution, marked a significant academic milestone by celebrating its 9th Convocation at the Baba Jitto Auditorium, Main Campus, Chatha. Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha, graced the convocation ceremony as the Chief Guest. Addressing the august gathering, Shri Sinha extended his heartfelt congratulations to the graduating students, faculty, and staff on the university’s completion of 25 glorious years since its establishment in 1999. He lauded the institution’s contribution to agricultural transformation and emphasized the importance of giving back to society through innovation, service, and ethical leadership. The Lieutenant Governor highlighted the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) and the Government of India’s commitment to empower over 2.5 lakh farmers, generate 2.8 lakh jobs, and establish 19,000 agri-enterprises in J&K through comprehensive agricultural and allied sector reforms. He appreciated SKUAST-Jammu’s successful implementation of all 29 HADP projects, its agri-business incubation centre and international linkages as evidence of the university’s role in ushering socio-economic change.Shri Sinha emphasized that the future of agriculture lies in innovation, technology and youth participation, and SKUAST-Jammu is at the forefront of this mission through its active support for startups, skill development and entrepreneurship. He applauded SKUAST-Jammu’s efforts in creating a strong startup ecosystem, mentioning that the Agri-Business Incubation Centre has incubated over 100 startups and helped 31 of them secure grant-in-aid support worth ₹3.33 crore from the Government of India. He also appreciated the establishment of the Technology Management and Intellectual Property Rights Cell (IPRC), which has secured 62 patents and commercialized several key innovations. Shri Sinha acknowledged the university’s extensive contribution to varietal development and technology transfer, including the release of over 50 improved varieties of cereals, pulses, oilseeds and horticultural crops and the promotion of toolswhich enhance resource use efficiency and support climate-resilient farming. In his remarks, the Hon’ble LG also emphasized inclusive growth and the need to empower women, marginal farmersand rural youth. He stressed the importance of research on underutilized crops, climate-resilient agriculture, sustainable resource use and value-added production. He lauded SKUAST-Jammu’s interventions in these areas and its efforts in reviving neglected agri-systems to improve nutritional and livelihood security. Hon’ble Chief Minister Jenab Omar Abdullah, present as the Guest of Honour, praised the university for its achievements in academic excellence, research, innovation, and extension. He noted the significant strides made in promoting organic farming, GI-tagged specialty crops, and climate-resilient agriculture. He urged the graduates to be drivers of inclusive growth, especially in the context of the UT’s heavy dependence on agriculture, where 70% of the population is engaged in farm-based livelihoods. Also present on the occasion were Hon’ble Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shri Jave Ahmed Dar, Chief Secretary Shri Atal Dulloo, Principal Secretary Shri Shailendra Kumar. Each dignitary congratulated the university on its silver jubilee and commended the Vice Chancellor and faculty for aligning SKUAST-Jammu’s vision with national priorities such as NEP-2020, Start-Up India, and Viksit Bharat @2047.

SKUAST-Jammu to Hold 9th Convocation

Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu, a premier ICAR-accredited ‘Grade A’ institution is all set to organise its 9th Convocation on Monday, August 4, 2025, at the Baba Jitto Auditorium, Main Campus, Chatha, Jammu.
Speaking on the occasion Prof B N Tripathi Hon’ble Vice Chancellor SKUAST Jammu informed that Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha Ji, will grace the ceremony as the Chief Guest, honouring the accomplishments of the University and its graduating students. The event will also be attended by Hon’ble Chief Minister Jenab Omar Abdullah, Hon’ble Agriculture Minister Jenab Javed Ahmed Dar along with Hon’ble MLAs, Members of the Board of Management and University Council highlighting the academic and developmental relevance of SKUAST-Jammu in the Union Territory. During the convocation, a total of 446 candidates who have successfully completed all academic requirements will be conferred with degrees across various faculties. The breakdown is as follows:
 Master’s Degrees (M.Sc./M.V.Sc./MBA-ABM): 157 candidates
 Doctoral Degrees (Ph.D.): 46 candidates
 Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture (B.Sc. Hons. Agriculture): 97 candidates
 Bachelor’s Degree in Veterinary Sciences (B.V.Sc. & A.H.): 117 candidates
 B.Tech. in Biotechnology: 29 candidates
In recognition of academic excellence, 08 meritorious students will be receiving Gold Medals across different faculties. Apart from degree distribution, the University will also honour its innovators, entrepreneurs and contributors to academia through special certificates:
 Patent Holders who have contributed to innovation and intellectual property in agriculture and allied fields.
 University based Startups that have demonstrated excellence in agri- entrepreneurship and innovation under SKUAST-Jammu’s incubation ecosystem.
 Professors of Practice who have brought field level expertise and industry experience to strengthen academic-industry linkages.
These recognitions reflect the University’s broader vision of fostering a knowledge- driven and innovation led agricultural transformation in the region.

VC SKUAST-Jammu Leads Viksit Bharat Yuva Connect Programme with Plantation Drive and Youth Centric Initiatives

Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu (SKUAST-Jammu) has taken a proactive step toward realizing the national vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 by launching the Viksit Bharat Yuva Connect Programme (VBYCP) with a major plantation drive. The drive was kick-started by Hon’ble Vice Chancellor Prof. B.N. Tripathi on August 1, 2025, with the aim of planting 3,000 saplings in a week. The initiative featured native and fruit-bearing tree species such as mango, bael, aonla and jamun, promoting ecological restoration and nutritional security. All statutory officers of the university actively participated in the campaign, reflecting a strong institutional commitment to sustainable development. The VBYCP at SKUAST-Jammu is being coordinated by Dr. Sanjay Khar, Director Education, while the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA) is led by Dr. Sudhakar Dwivedi, Dean Student Welfare. The plantation activity was effectively executed through a collaborative effort involving Dr. M.K. Pandey and Dr. R.K. Pandey, with coordination by Hostel Wardens Dr. A.K. Singh and Dr. Kapil Tiwari. Speaking on the occasion, Prof. B.N. Tripathi emphasized that Viksit Bharat @2047, as envisioned by Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi, goes beyond a developmental slogan and represents a national movement aimed at transforming India into a developed nation by its centenary of independence. He underlined the vital role that academic institutions must play in this mission by driving innovation, nurturing entrepreneurship, and building a skilled and empowered youth force. He called for a fundamental shift in academic priorities moving away from rote learning and towards experiential, problem-solving education that inspires students to become job creators rather than job seekers. Prof. Tripathi further stated that the youth must be empowered through a structured ecosystem grounded in the principles of “idea, incubation, innovation and start-up.” He stressed the importance of integrating skill development, creativity and curiosity into academic programs, thereby laying the foundation for a resilient, self-reliant India. He also highlighted the growing role of agricultural universities in contributing to climate-resilient farming, sustainable rural livelihoods, and national food security; all of which align with the broader objectives of Viksit Bharat. Acknowledging the progressive leadership of Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha, Prof. Tripathi noted that Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed substantial strides in both infrastructure and education. He expressed gratitude for the continuous support extended by the UT administration and the Chief Minister’s Office, which has enabled SKUAST-Jammu to overcome systemic hurdles and implement national flagship programs effectively at the grassroots level. In the lead-up to the national launch of the VBYCP, SKUAST-Jammu will host a series of pre-launch events on August 11, 2025. These include a Youth Parliament to encourage political discourse among students, a MY Bharat Online Registration Drive to digitally onboard youth onto the government’s youth engagement platform, and a Debate Competition focused on the theme “Emergency,” promoting civic awareness and critical thinking. The national-level launch of the VBYCP will be held on August 12, 2025, coinciding with International Youth Day. On this landmark day, the Hon’ble Prime Minister will virtually address youth from over 1,339 universities across the country, marking the beginning of an annual tradition of direct engagement between the nation's leadership and its young citizens. Prof. Tripathi concluded by calling on the entire SKUAST-Jammu fraternity; students, faculty and staff to make the VBYCP a resounding success. He reiterated that the future of India lies in the hands of its youth, and it is the responsibility of educational institutions to mentor, guide, and empower them to lead the country into a new era of prosperity, inclusivity, and self-reliance.

Jenab Omar Abdullah, Hon’ble Chief Minister of the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir, apprised by the Vice-Chancellor of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu (SKUAST-Jammu) regarding University's forthcoming Convocation.

SKUAST-Jammu kicks off 3rd Batch of DAESI Diploma Programme for Input Dealers

The State Agricultural Management and Extension Training Institute (SAMETI), Jammu, under the Directorate of Extension SKUAST-Jammu, and the leadership of Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor Prof. B.N. Tripathi, kicks off the 3rd Batch of the One-Year Diploma in Agricultural Extension Services for Input Dealers (DAESI) on July 24, 2025. This program is organized in collaboration with the National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE), Hyderabad. A total of 40 input dealers have enrolled in this batch. The program includes both theory sessions and field visits. The event was attended by Sh. Arvinder Singh Reen, State Nodal Officer (ATMA) and Director Agriculture, Jammu, as the Chief Guest. In his inaugural address he advised against the reckless use of agrochemicals and highlighted the lack of awareness regarding their environmental and health risks. He emphasized that DAESI-trained input dealers can help fill this knowledge gap. In his address, Dr. Amrish Vaid, Director SAMETI & Director Extension, highlighted the importance of the DAESI Diploma in India, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir. He noted that trained agri-input dealers play a key role in providing informed and responsible advice to farmers. Dr. Vaid also pointed out the need for ethical behavior and loyalty to the farming profession, beyond mere business goals. Dr. Hema Tripathi, Associate Director of Extension, urged input dealers to act as para-extension workers, strengthening their relationships with farmers and improving the spread of scientific agricultural methods. Dr. Vijay Kumar Sharma, Deputy Director Extension and other faculty members were also present. Mrs. Puja Nayyar, Deputy Director (SAMETI-Jammu) and Coordinator of the DAESI Programme, conducted the proceedings. Dr. Pawan Kumar Sharma, Professor and Head Division of AE&ABM at SKUAST- Jammu, delivered the vote of thanks.

SKUAST-Jammu launches AgriThon 2.0 under JKCIP

Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu is all set to launch AgriThon 2.0, a prestigious national-level innovation challenge aimed at empowering the rural youth of Jammu Division and students from higher education institutions (HEIs) across Northern India. Organized under the Competitiveness Improvement of Agriculture and Allied Sectors Project (JKCIP) with support from IFAD, AgriThon 2.0 reflects the vision of “Viksit Krishi for Atmanirbhar Bharat” by promoting entrepreneurship and technology-driven solutions in agriculture and allied sectors. Addressing a press conference, Prof. B.N. Tripathi, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of SKUAST- Jammu and Chairman of the event, emphasized that this initiative is in line with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of making India a global hub for startups and innovation. The event invites out-of-the-box ideas from young minds on themes like Digital Agriculture, Climate Resilient Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Food Processing and Urban Farming. Participants stand a chance to win prizes worth ₹5.60 lakh, while selected business plans will receive financial support of up to ₹5.00 lakh each for implementation. A dedicated online portal for AgriThon 2.0 has been launched to ensure smooth and transparent submission of concept notes. Registration is free of cost and entries will be accepted from 25th July to 25th August 2025. For rural youth, the event is a platform to convert local knowledge into enterprise, while for students from agricultural, veterinary, horticultural, forestry and general universities, as well as institutions like IITs, IIMs, and NITs across J&K, Ladakh, Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi, and Uttarakhand, it serves as a launchpad for impactful agri-tech innovations. The competition will be conducted in three stages; submission of a 500-word concept note, evaluation by domain experts, and live presentations by shortlisted participants before an expert jury. All finalists will receive certificates of participation. AgriThon 2.0 builds upon the success of earlier initiatives like AgriThon 2024 and the Her-Harvest Ideathon for girl students of SKUAST-Jammu, which witnessed promising innovations in precision farming, biotechnology, pest management, and digital tools. The launch of AgriThon 2.0 also comes at a time when India’s startup ecosystem has reached a significant milestone, with over 1.59 lakh officially recognized startups as per DPIIT data, making India the third-largest startup hub globally after the US and China. Initiatives like Startup India, Stand-up India, and Digital India continue to empower innovators, with the world closely watching how India is using grassroots innovation to solve global-scale challenges. Through AgriThon 2.0, SKUAST-Jammu reaffirms its commitment to nurturing agri-entrepreneurship, building a vibrant ecosystem of student technocrats, rural innovators, and future-ready agripreneurs. Those interested can register and find more details at the official portal: https://skuast.org/AgriThon2.0/. All statutory officers of the university, including Dr. Amrish Vaid, Director Extension & Co- Chairman, Dr. S.K. Gupta Director Research, Dr. Sanjay Khar Director Education & DPM, Dr. Anil Kumar Registrar & Dean FoA, Dr. Sudhakar Dwivedi Dean Student Welfare, Dr. Rajesh Katoch Dean FVSc. & AH, Dr. Vikas Tandon Dean, Faculty of Horticulture & Forestry, Dr. Jaswinder Soodan, Dean Faculty of Dairy Technology, Dr. R.K. Salgotra Director IBT, Dr. R.K. Samnotra, Librarian, along with organising team Dr. Hema Tripathi, Associate Director Extension & Convenor, Dr. Manish Sharma, Dr. Vikas Sharma, Dr. Pawan K Sharma, Dr. Punit Choudhary, Dr. Vivak Arya, Dr. Anil Bhat and Dr. Vijay Sharma were present during the press meet.

SKUAST-Jammu organizes ZREAC Kharif meeting

Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) Jammu organized a Zonal Research and Extension Advisory Committee (ZREAC) meeting for Kharif - 2025 for Jammu province today. Prof. B.N. Tripathi, Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu in his opening remarks said that there is an urgent need to bridge the gap between farmers and scientists and the technology developed by SKUAST Jammu should reach the end users through all the line Departments. He reiterated that the recommendations and suggestions of the meeting should be fruitful in solving the problems of the farmers of Jammu region. He stressed upon proper feedback from the line departments for the identification of researchable issues. “Agriculture is now facing challenges of global warming and climate change impacts our environment, agriculture, health and economy”, he reiterated. He stressed upon popularization and promotion of sustainable agriculture practices such as adoption of climate resilient varieties, shifting from chemical farming to organic and natural farming, promotion of water conservation and irrigation techniques and changes to cropping patterns. Prof. Tripathi suggested that there is need to prepare a road map of the varieties that are to be provided to the farmers in the coming years. He urged upon the scientists to provide technical support to the officers of line departments. Dr. S. K. Gupta, Director Research, SKUAST-Jammu presented the overview of the research activities of the University. During the meeting, action taken report on proceedings of ZREAC Kharif 2024 were presented by the scientists and recommendations on the basis of On- Farm Testing were also discussed. Besides, officers of the line Departments also deliberated on the issues related to research and extension. During the ZREAC meeting, a pocket dairy was released which contain important information on package and practices of crops and advisories for animal husbandry. At the outset, Dr. Amrish Vaid, Director Extension, SKUAST-Jammu welcomed Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu, Statutory officers of the University, Directors of line Departments, Head of the Divisions of all the faculties, Head of KVK’s and research stations, scientists and officers of line departments of Jammu region. He further added that today’s recommendations will provide sustainable solutions for the problem faced by farmers during this Kharif Season. Proceedings of the meetings were conducted by Dr. Pawan Sharma and vote of thanks was presented by Dr. Vijay Kumar Sharma.

SKUAST-Jammu with ICSSR hosts National Seminar to hark 150th Birth Anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda

Prof. B. N. Tripathi, Vice Chancellor SKUAST-Jammu as Chief Guest inaugurates Two- Day National Seminar on Weaving Janjatiya Heritage as Pathways to Sustainable Futures in North-Western Himalayas in the presence of Sh. Prasanna Ramaswamy G. (IAS), Secretary to the Government, Tribal Affairs Department, J&K and Guest of Honour on the occasion. The seminar is being organized by the Division of Agricultural Economics & Agri-Business Management in collaboration with the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), New Delhi, under its prestigious Competitive Seminar Scheme. Notably, SKUAST-Jammu is the only university from Jammu & Kashmir selected among 11 institutions nationwide under the ICSSR Competitive Seminar Scheme, an affirmation of the university’s growing prominence in the field of social science research and rural studies. Prof. Tripathi reaffirmed SKUAST-Jammu's dedication to inclusive growth, equitable development, and the integration of traditional tribal wisdom into mainstream academic and policy frameworks. He also emphasized the university's role as a catalyst in empowering marginalized communities through education, research, and grassroots engagement. He highlighted the contribution of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, a legendary tribal freedom fighter and revered icon of India’s indigenous movements. The seminar aims to honor his enduring legacy and shed light on contemporary issues affecting tribal communities across the country. Sh. Prasanna Ramaswamy G. quoted scientific reasoning to emphasize the fundamental oneness of humanity and urged the academic community to foster equality and equity among students. He advocated for holistic development models that recognize the socio-cultural uniqueness of tribal communities while ensuring their full participation in national progress. Both dignitaries underscored the need for such scholarly platforms to foster inclusive policy dialogue, cultural recognition, and knowledge-based development for tribal populations. The inaugural session was attended by senior university officials, including Dr. Anil Kumar, Dean, Faculty of Agriculture and Registrar; Dr. S.K. Gupta, Director Research; Dr. Amrish Vaid, Director Extension; Dr. Sanjay Khar, Director Education & DPM; and Dr. Sudhakar Dwivedi, Dean Students Welfare. Their presence reflected the university’s collective commitment to tribal upliftment through research, education, and extension. Dr. Anil Kumar highlighted the importance of integrating tribal concerns into the academic curriculum, while Dr. S.K. Gupta emphasized the role of research in formulating data-driven policies for sustainable tribal development. In his welcome address, Dr. Sudhakar Dwivedi emphasized the depth and richness of tribal knowledge systems and cultural heritage. He reaffirmed SKUAST-Jammu's dedication to inclusive growth, equitable development, and the integration of traditional tribal wisdom into mainstream academic and policy frameworks. A highlight of the seminar was the address by Javaid Rahi, renowned tribal scholar and author, who elaborated on the ethnic identity, cultural heritage, and socio-economic challenges of tribal communities in the Jammu region. His insights helped contextualize the regional issues within the broader national tribal discourse. The seminar has attracted more than 75 researchers, scholars, and students from reputed higher education institutions across Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, who contributed their research papers on themes such as tribal livelihoods, sustainable agriculture, land rights, education, forest governance, and policy innovation. The event is serving as a vibrant platform for exchange of ideas, best practices, and case studies aimed at strengthening tribal resilience and representation. As part of the seminar proceedings, individuals and organizations working for the welfare and development of tribal communities were also felicitated for their outstanding contributions. Awardees included Gurjar Desh Charitable Trust, KVK Poonch, KVK Rajouri, KVK Reasi, and KVK Kathua for their impactful grassroots interventions. Mr. Javaid Rahi, noted tribal social reformer and scholar, was recognized for his lifelong work in tribal advocacy, while Ms. Shahida Khanam was honoured for establishing the first tribal museum in Kashmir, a pioneering effort in preserving and promoting indigenous culture. Dr. Pawan Kumar Sharma Organising Secretary delivered a formal vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to ICSSR, participating experts, students, and the university leadership for their unwavering support. He also appreciated the organizing team’s commitment to delivering a successful academic event. The seminar is being co-organized by Dr. Jyoti Kachroo, Dr. S.P. Singh, Dr. Anil Bhat, Dr. Malika Sharma and Dr. Sunakshi Gupta whose coordinated efforts have ensured a seamless and impactful execution of the programme. The proceedings of the event were conducted by Mr. Pratyush and Ms Eva Sharma. The two-day deliberations are expected to conclude with policy recommendations and actionable insights that will meaningfully contribute to the national agenda of tribal empowerment, sustainable rural development, and inclusive growth.

ADG NCC Directorates J&K and Ladakh Visits SKUAST-Jammu to Explore NCC Expansion

Major General Anupinder Bevli, Additional Director General (ADG), National Cadet Corps (NCC), Directorates J&K and Ladakh, visited Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu (SKUAST-Jammu) to discuss the prospects of strengthening NCC activities on campus. He was accompanied by Brigadier D.N. Pandey, Commander, NCC Group Headquarters Jammu and Colonel Munish Jasrotia, Commanding Officer, 8th J&K Battalion NCC. The delegation was accorded a warm welcome by Prof. B.N. Tripathi, Hon’ble Vice- Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu, along with senior university officials including Prof. Sudhakar Dwivedi, Dean Students Welfare and Prof. Sanjay Guleria, Dean, Faculty of Basic Sciences. A significant meeting was held to deliberate on two NCC units, NCC Air Wing and NCC Armed Unit raised at SKUAST-Jammu. Both sides emphasized the critical role of NCC in nurturing discipline, leadership, and a spirit of national integration among the youth. Major General Bevli expressed keen interest in expanding NCC opportunities at the university, highlighting the potential of cadet engagement in building responsible and skilled citizens. The visit was organized by Dr. Sudhakar Dwivedi, Dean Students Welfare and coordinated by Dr. Susheel Sharma and Dr. Jasleen Kaur, Caretaker Officers (CTOs) of the NCC Air and Armed Units at SKUAST-Jammu. The visit also included an extensive tour of key research facilities at SKUAST-Jammu. The ADG was introduced to the Institute of Biotechnology (IBT), where Professor R.K. Salgotra, Director, IBT, showcased cutting-edge technologies and ongoing research projects. The delegation toured the High Instrumentation Lab, Rice Lab, and other specialized research facilities. At the Hydroponics Unit, Professor Gurdev Chand briefed the visiting dignitaries on innovative soil-less cultivation techniques and research endeavors. The delegation also visited the Beekeeping Unit, where Professor Devinder Sharma highlighted various projects and innovations in apiculture. Interactions also took place with Professor Sachin Gupta, who is leading mushroom cultivation initiatives at the university. Appreciating the diverse research and extension activities, Major General Bevli underlined the significance of such academic collaborations in fostering innovation and capacity building among students, particularly cadets. The engagement marked a promising step towards fortifying NCC presence at the university while fostering a culture of research, leadership, and nation-building among the students.

Farmers as India’s silient warriors

FVSc and AH, SKUAST-Jammu Celebrates World Zoonoses Day- 2025

Under the able guidance of Prof. B. N. Tripathi, Hon’ble Vice- Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu, World Zoonoses Day- 2025 was organized at Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry at R. S. Pura. The Programme was organized by Division of Veterinary Public Health and Epidemiology in collaboration with National Service Scheme (NSS) volunteers at FVSc and AH. The theme of World Zoonoses Day 2025 is “One World, One Health: Prevent Zoonoses”. World Zoonoses Day is observed globally on July 6th every year to commemorate the scientific breakthrough made by Louis Pasteur, who successfully administered the first rabies vaccine on this day in 1885. This occasion serves as a powerful reminder of the continuing threat posed by zoonotic diseases — infections that are transmitted between animals and humans. Worthy Dean, FVSc&AH, Dr. Rajesh Katoch graced the event. The event began with welcome address by Dr. Harsh Kumar Sharma, Professor & Head, VPHE cum Organizing Secretary of the function. He has emphasised about the importance of Zoonoses day celebration and public health significance of theme of this year. He informed that preventing the next pandemic starts at the animal-human interface. A united global response through One Health partnerships is essential to reduce risks, protect biodiversity, and ensure global health security. The expert lecture was given by Worthy Dean of the Faculty about the Parasitic Zoonoses. He has elaborately described about the different parasitic diseases that are transmitting from Animal to Human including Fish along with their symptoms, prevention and treatment. The programme was also attended by Prof. M. A. Malik, Prof. Puneet Choudhary, Dr. Dibyendu Chakraborty and Dr. Kawardeep Kour. The audience was UG students of the BVSc&AH. The function concluded with the vote of thanks by Dr. Kawardeep Kour.

Vice Chancellor SKUAST-Jammu inaugurated Two-Days Startup Outreach Event under JKCIP

Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu inaugurated a two-day Startup Outreach Event under Competitiveness Improvement in agriculture and allied sectors project in UT of J&K (JKCIP) today at the Conference Hall, Chatha Campus. The event also marked the Prize Distribution Ceremony of the Her-Harvest Ideathon, a celebration of innovation and entrepreneurship among aspiring agripreneurs, particularly women. Prof. B.N. Tripathi, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of SKUAST-Jammu, emphasized the university’s proactive role in implementing the Jammu & Kashmir Competitiveness Improvement of Agriculture and Allied Sectors Project (JKCIP). He outlined four key verticals under the project Upscaling collectivization, startup promotion and incubation, promotion of niche agri-crops, and development of horticulture clusters and value chains. These efforts, aligned with national initiatives like HADP, Viksit Bharat @2047, and Start-Up India, aim to enhance research impact, strengthen rural livelihoods and boost market competitiveness. He noted that the Startup Outreach Programme under JKCIP is an important step to guide youth toward entrepreneurship in agri-tech, value addition, and climate-smart innovations. He also highlighted the significance of the HER-HARVEST Ideathon, organized under International Women’s Day 2025, as a platform to promote women-led innovation in agriculture. Commending the participants for their visionary ideas, he described women not merely as beneficiaries but as changemakers in sustainable agri-development. The Vice Chancellor reaffirmed the university’s commitment to creating enabling ecosystems for young entrepreneurs and stressed the need for academia to evolve from conventional teaching roles to become active contributors in technology transfer, startup incubation, and rural transformation. Ms. Anuradha Gupta (JKAS), Director General, Youth Services & Sports, J&K & Guest of Honour of the programme appreciated the HER-HARVEST Ideathon as a powerful, girl-oriented initiative promoting women’s leadership in agriculture and innovation. She encouraged the university to continue organizing such inclusive and empowering programs and offered full support from the J&K Government for future collaborations. She also proposed exploring partnerships between SKUAST-Jammu and the Department of Youth Services & Sports to promote sports activities and youth development alongside academic excellence. She echoed the importance of empowering women and youth, affirming that academia must evolve beyond traditional roles to play an active part in entrepreneurship development, technology transfer, and rural transformation. Acknowledged the growing role of research institutions in supporting market-driven innovations, Dr. S.K. Gupta , Director Research encouraged youth to align their ideas with sustainable development goals. Dr. Amrish Vaid, Director Extension highlighted the role of extension services in taking innovative ideas to farming communities. He called for deeper integration of startups into rural value chains for upliftment of farmers in J&K. Dr. Anil Kumar praised the initiative for promoting student-led innovation and entrepreneurship in agriculture. He also emphasized academic leadership in fostering startup culture and the need to focus on niche crops of the Jammu region. Dr. Hema Tripathi, Associate Director Extension presented a detailed report on the HER-HARVEST Ideathon, outlining its goals and outcomes. 25 girl students belonging were awarded under different themes of Ideathon. While presenting the formal vote of thanks, Dr. Jyoti Kachroo highlighted the growing impact of the Agri-Incubation Centre under RKVY-RAFTAAR. Dr. Pawan K. Sharma, Nodal Officer, JKCIP, delivered the welcome address and Dr. Anil Bhat Co-PI, JKCIP alongwith Ms. Magan carried out the proceedings.

SKUAST-Jammu signs agreement for establishing Bayer Learning Centre

Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu has taken a significant stride in strengthening its industry-academia partnership by establishing the Bayer Learning Centre (BLC) under the dynamic leadership of Prof. B. N. Tripathi, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor. This collaborative initiative with Bayer Crop Science aims to provide hands-on learning opportunities to students, aligning agricultural education with modern industry practices. The agreement to establish the BLC was formally signed between Mr. Gulshan Singh Rana, Head Market Development and Commercial Capability, Bayer Crop Science and Prof. S.K. Gupta, Director Research, SKUAST-Jammu. The initiative was coordinated by Prof. Sanjay Guleria, Dean, Faculty of Basic Sciences and Incharge, Counselling and Placement Cell. The BLC will function as a field-based learning and demonstration platform, enabling students to gain practical exposure to innovative agricultural technologies. SKUAST-Jammu will provide land, agricultural tools, machinery, and infrastructure support. It will also ensure regular academic guidance, faculty coordination, and management of produce generated from BLC demonstrations. Bayer will contribute by supplying essential inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, crop protection products, and micronutrients, and will bear the operational cost including labour charges. Additionally, Bayer will offer incentives or stipends to students actively involved in the centre’s activities and will provide technical support through literature, expert visits, and training programs. Both institutions will jointly develop an annual work plan, co-brand the centre, and document success stories and learnings for broader dissemination. The agreement is valid for an initial period of five years and may be extended with mutual consent. Prof. N. Tripathi emphasized that the BLC represents SKUAST-Jammu’s strong commitment to experiential learning, skill development, and making students future-ready

International Yoga Day 2025 Celebrated at SKUAST-Jammu

To commemorate the International Yoga Day 2025, the National Service Scheme (NSS) Unit of SKUAST-Jammu, under the dynamic leadership of Hon’ble Vice Chancellor Prof. B.N. Tripathi and Dean Students Welfare Dr. Sudhakar Dwivedi, organized a yoga session at the Main Campus, Chatha. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from faculty members, staff and students. The yoga session was graced by Hon’ble Vice Chancellor Prof. B.N. Tripathi as the Chief Guest and active participant. He was joined by prominent university dignitaries including Dr. Sushil Kumar Gupta, Director Research, Dr. Anil Kumar, Dean, Faculty of Agriculture & Registrar, Dr. Sanjay Khar, Director Planning and Monitoring, Dr. Rajesh Katoch, Dean, FVSc & AH, Dr. Sudhakar Dwivedi, Dean Student Welfare, Dr. R. K. Samnotra, Chief Librarian, Dr. Vikas Tandon, Dean, Faculty of Horticulture & Forestry, Dr. Sanjay Guleria, Dean, F.B.Sc. and Dr. Anil Gupta, Medical Officer. Participants practiced a variety of yoga asanas and breathing exercises under the expert guidance of Sh. Rohit Ji from Arogya Bharti, who served as the Yoga Instructor for the session. In his address, Prof. Tripathi highlighted the significance of Yoga in maintaining physical, mental and emotional well-being. He emphasized that Yoga extends beyond physical exercise, promoting inner balance and holistic health. Reflecting on this year’s theme, "Yoga for One Earth, One Health", he stressed the deep connection between individual wellness and the health of our planet. “Yoga strengthens the body, calms the mind and fosters a heightened sense of awareness and responsibility, leading to healthier and more sustainable lifestyles,” he remarked. International Day of Yoga has been observed annually on June 21 since its formal adoption by the United Nations in 2014 and SKUAST-Jammu continues to uphold the spirit of this global initiative. The event was meticulously coordinated and supervised by Dr. Subhash C. Kashyap, NSS Coordinator with support from Mr. Neeraj Gupta and Mr. Kuldeep Singh, Physical Instructors of SKUAST-Jammu. A large number of faculty members, NSS volunteers, NCC cadets and students from the Chatha Campus participated in the event. The programme concluded with a formal vote of thanks by Dr. Subhash C. Kashyap followed by the serving of refreshments to all attendees.

Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan (VKSA) 2025: Catalyzing Agricultural Transformation in Jammu Towards Viksit Bharat 2047

Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan 2025" was a nationwide campaign in India organized by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). It focused on transforming the agricultural sector by promoting modern technologies, sustainable practices, and improved access to resources for farmers. The campaign, which ran from May 29th to June 12th, 2025 aimed to build a resilient, inclusive, and future-ready agricultural sector. The 15-day Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan (VKSA) 2025, organized by Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu (SKUAST-Jammu) through its nine Krishi Vigyan Kendras under the umbrella of Directorate of Extension in association with the Department of Agriculture, UT of J&K, concluded successfully on 15th June 2025 with widespread participation and outreach. The campaign aimed to empower farmers through the promotion of modern agricultural technologies, sustainable farming practices, and improved access to government schemes. SKUAST-Jammu mobilized 389 expert teams, covering all 10 districts viz; Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Doda, Kishtwar, Reasi, Rajouri, Ramban , Poonch and Udhampur, 143 blocks, and over 2400 villages, reaching out to more than 1.72 lakh farmers. The campaign facilitated substantial enrolment in key schemes—around 7,000 new registrations under PM-KISAN and thousands sensitized under PMFBY and KCC. All nine KVKs in Jammu division conducted over 250 awareness camps, demonstrations, and capacity-building sessions, focusing on digital agriculture, backyard poultry, drones in agriculture and SHG-led enterprises. Climate resilience and digital agriculture were emphasized through demonstrations of water-saving technologies, mobile apps, geo-tagging, and QR code-based services. Women farmers and rural youth played an active role, particularly in organic farming and value-added millet products. SKUAST-Jammu mobilized faculty for village outreach, released multilingual extension literature, and conducted mobile surveys in partnership with NIC-Jammu to assess feedback and accessibility of services. The campaign’s success was further amplified through wide media coverage by Doordarshan, AIR, and social media platforms. A major highlight was the official launch of VKSA 2025 at Langrial village in R.S. Pura on May 30 by Union Agriculture Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, accompanied by Dr. Jitendra Singh (MoS, PMO), Shri Javed Ahmad Dar (Agriculture Minister, J&K UT), Shri Jugal Kishore Sharma (MP), Dr. Narinder Singh Raina, Shri Gharu Ram Bhagat and other dignitaries. The event featured a Pad Yatra, the launch of the "Beej Vaahan" (mobile seed distribution unit), distribution of hydroponic kits, and live demonstrations of agricultural drones and laser land levellers, highlighting innovations in precision farming. Addressing over 5,000 attendees, the Union Minister called for bridging the gap between research and field practices and urged farmers to adopt new technologies in line with the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047. The Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor and Nodal Officer of VKSA of SKUAST-Jammu, Prof. B.N. Tripathi, personally attended the VKSA outreach programs in remote and hilly districts such as Ramban, Doda, and Kishtwar. All the campaigns witnessed enthusiastic participation from public representatives and farming communities, marking a significant step toward sustainable and inclusive agricultural development. These efforts focused on crop diversification, market-led agriculture, soil health awareness, and judicious use of water resources. Farmers were provided with seeds, fertilizers, and educational material, while awareness was raised about the importance of Soil Health Cards, horticulture-based models, and government schemes. Despite challenges such as difficult terrain, linguistic diversity, and pre-monsoon disruptions, proactive planning and strong institutional convergence ensured seamless execution. VKSA in Jammu established a replicable model of collaborative agricultural extension, grassroots mobilisation, and science-driven development.

Vice Chancellor SKUAST-Jammu released brochure of 10th Asian PGPR Society India Chapter National Conference to be held at SKUAST-Jammu, Chatha

The Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu (SKUAST-Jammu) in collaboration with Asian PGPR Society, India Chapter is organizing the 10th Asian PGPR Society India Chapter national conference on “Fostering PGPR's for secondary green revolution towards soil and crop health management” from 15-17 September, 2025 at the Main Campus, Chatha. Prof. B. N. Tripathi, Hon'ble Vice Chancellor SKUAST-Jammu and Chief Patron of the conference, formally released conference information brochure today in the presence of statutory officers of the university and extended warm wishes for the great success of the upcoming event. This conference is being organized for scholars, researchers, industry and advisors with devoted interest and concern for scientific advances, policy making and strategic perspectives with focus on exploring new innovative approaches that includes fascinating world of Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) and their critical role in achieving agricultural sustainability. Dr S.K. Gupta, Director Research & Convener, Dr. Brajeshwar Singh Organising Secretary, Dr. Anil Bhushan and Dr. Vishal Gupta as Co-Organising Secretaries were also present on the occasion.

Hon’ble Vice Chancellor SKUAST-J Interacts with Doda Farmers during Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan

On the 9th day of the 15-day nationwide campaign Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan, KVK Doda, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and allied departments, organized an awareness programme at Khalleni village, Doda The event was chaired by Hon’ble Vice Chancellor Prof. B.N. Tripathi, SKUAST-Jammu and witnessed enthusiastic participation from farmers, farm women, rural youth and PRI members Prof. Tripathi interacted with SHGs and progressive farmers, encouraging them to adopt agri-entrepreneurship, value addition and modern technologies. He emphasized women empowerment, food processing, branding and sustainable farming for higher income The Vice Chancellor also visited KVK units and appreciated the staff's efforts The event was graced by Directors and Deans of SKUAST-J and heads of allied departments Farmer-scientist interactions, an agri-exhibition and felicitation of progressive farmers added value to the programme

Prof. B. N. Tripathi, Hon'ble Vice C SKUAST-Jammu Visits Ramban under Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan

Prof. B. N. Tripathi, Hon'ble Vice C SKUAST-Jammu Visits Ramban under Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan emphasized the need for sustainable agriculture and adoption of modern farming techniques He urged farmers to make full use of government schemes for agricultural development The outreach programs were organized by KVK Ramban in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and allied departments Farmers were sensitized on natural farming, soil health cards, PM Fasal Bima Yojana, Integrated Farming System, apiculture, fish culture and more On-the-spot solutions were provided to their farm-related queries and IEC materials were distributed.

Faculty of Basic Sciences Initiates Global Knowledge Exchange through Expert Lecture Series

Under the visionary leadership and able guidance of Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Prof. B.N. Tripathi, the Faculty of Basic Sciences has launched an Expert Lecture Series aimed at enriching academic discourse through interactions with eminent scholars and researchers from across the globe. The series will host national and international experts who will deliver lectures on a wide array of topics in both virtual and offline modes. The inaugural lecture in the series was delivered by Dr. Gábor Tarcali, Director, Institute of Plant Protection, University of Debrecen, Hungary. Dr. Tarcali spoke on his work on Cryphonectria parasitica (Murrill) M.E. Barr fungus conducted at the University of Debrecen, and elaborated on the biological significance, historical background, global impact, and management strategies associated with the fungus. He also provided insights into the academic environment at the University of Debrecen and explored possible avenues for research and academic collaboration, particularly focusing on Indo-Hungarian partnerships. During the session, Dr. Sanjay Guleria, Dean, Faculty of Basic Sciences, welcomed the speaker and emphasized the importance of such initiatives in fostering international academic engagement. Dr. Brajeshwar Singh, Head, Division of Microbiology, formally introduced Dr. Tarcali and Dr. Vinod Kumar, Associate Professor moderated the session. The lecture witnessed enthusiastic participation from faculty, students, and researchers, marking a successful beginning to the lecture series. This initiative reflects SKUAST-Jammu’s commitment to academic excellence and global outreach through collaborative learning and knowledge exchange.

SKUAST-Jammu Celebrates World Environment Day 2025

Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu (SKUAST-Jammu) celebrated World Environment Day on 5th June 2025 with great enthusiasm and commitment to environmental sustainability. The event was organized under the patronage of Prof. B.N. Tripathi, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, a staunch advocate of the Green Campus Initiative. Under his visionary leadership, more than 1,500 saplings were planted across the campus, accompanied by extensive landscaping activities to enhance the campus's ecological aesthetics. Chief Guest, Dr. Rajinder Pehshin, Director Education, delivered the keynote address focusing on the critical issue of plastic pollution especially in agriculture. He emphasized both the beneficial and detrimental impacts of plastic use, advocating for its judicious and environmentally responsible application to mitigate ecological harm. Dr. Vikas Tandon, Dean, Faculty of Horticulture and Forestry extended a warm welcome to the statutory officers, heads of divisions, faculty members, non-teaching staff and students. In his address, he highlighted the significance of World Environment Day and the university’s commitment to environmental conservation. He expressed gratitude to the university authorities for their unwavering support and reaffirmed the faculty’s resolve to continue the plantation drive throughout the year. Dr. Tandon urged students to participate in the initiative in a project-oriented manner to establish a model sustainable green campus. Students actively participated in an essay competition, with notable contributions from Ms. Kashish Gauria, Ms. Sakshi Bhagat (3rd Year), Mr. Ayush (1st Year), and Ms. Vyomin (2nd Year) all from the Faculty of Horticulture. Eminent university officials including Dr. R.K. Samnotra, Chief Librarian; Dr. R.K. Salgotra, Director IBT; Dr. Sanjay Guleria, Dean, F.B.Sc. and Sh. Madan Lal, Comptroller graced the occasion with their presence. Students were felicitated for their creative contributions: Best Photograph on Environment: Madhav Bhushan Best Slogan – “Say No to Plastics”: Ritika Maurya A thought-provoking skit on climate change was presented by students Nausheen, Vedika, Ritika, Tanishka, Abhinandan, Sehaj and Mussaber which effectively raised awareness among the audience. The event proceedings were smoothly conducted by Ms. Diksha and Ms. Ramandeep, students of the faculty. The programme was coordinated by Dr. Sandeep Sehgal, Head, Division of Agroforestry while the vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Meenakshi Gupta, Professor, Agroforestry.

Hon'ble Vice Chancellor Visits Faculty of Agriculture and Faculty of Horticulture & Forestry(03 June, 2025)

Prof. B.N. Tripathi, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu visited the Faculty of Agriculture and Faculty of Horticulture & Forestry today on 03.0p6.2025 During the visit, he interacted with undergraduate students to understand the challenges they face and issued on-spot instructions for their welfare Addressing the students, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor emphasized the importance of focusing on academics while also fulfilling their responsibilities towards maintaining a clean and green campus He urged students to make proper use of dustbins placed across the University premises to ensure cleanliness and hygiene Prof. Tripathi also inspected all UG classrooms, washrooms and surrounding areas in both faculties and expressed satisfaction over their upkeep and maintenance Visit was accompanied by Prof. Anil Kumar, Dean, Faculty of Agriculture; Prof. Vikas Tandon, Dean, Faculty of Horticulture & Forestry; and other faculty members

World Milk Day 2025 Celebrated at SKUAST-Jammu(01 June, 2025)

The Faculty of Dairy Technology, SKUAST-Jammu, proudly celebrated World Milk Day on June 1, 2025 at the R.S. Pura campus with the theme Let’s Celebrate the Power of Dairy Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) B.N. Tripathi graced the occasion as Chief Guest and emphasized the role of milk in rural livelihoods, women empowerment and global food security Dr. Rajesh Katoch, Dean, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, highlighted the crucial role of veterinarians in the livestock sector. Dr. J.S. Soodan, Dean, FoDT welcomed the gathering and highlighted the dairy sector’s role in livelihood and nutritional security####Dr. Sunil Kumar Professor and Head, Dairy Technology delivered the keynote, emphasizing milk as a complete food and its role in fighting malnutrition. The event featured expert addresses, student competitions in poster-making & milk product innovation and vibrant participation from Dairy and Veterinary Sciences faculties The event was coordinated by Dr. Punit Chaudhary, Head, KVK Jammu with active support from Dr. Jasleen Kour and faculty members.

Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan launches Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan at Langrial Village, R.S. Pura, Jammu (29 May, 2025)

Hon’ble Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development kickstarted Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan at Langrial Village, R.S. Pura, Jammu the 15-day nationwide campaign (May 29 – June 12, 2025), organized by SKUAST-Jammu, is a part of the Kharif strategy to enhance productivity and reach farmers at the grassroots. Addressing 5000+ attendees, Shri Chouhan emphasized transforming Indian agriculture through innovation, farmer-first engagement and lab-to-land transfer of technology He called for united efforts to build a profitable, sustainable and nutrition-secure agricultural future in line with the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of Science & Technology, Earth Sciences; Prime Minister's Office spoke about the potential of nuclear, biotech and digital innovations in agriculture and encouraged youth to join agri-startups 🎓 Prof. B.N. Tripathi, Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu and Nodal Officer of the campaign welcomed dignitaries and highlighted the university’s role in empowering farmers through scientific research and actionable solutions He thanked the Hon’ble Minister for selecting Langrial, a border village as the launch site. Other dignitaries including MP Sh. Jugal Kishore Sharma, J&K Agriculture Minister Sh. Javed Ahmad Dar and MLA Dr. Narinder Singh Raina shared key insights and appealed for maximum utilization of central schemes like HADP and IFAD-supported initiatives The event witnessed the participation of several prominent dignitaries including Sh. Gharu Ram Bhagat, MLA Suchetgarh; Dr. Prabhat Kumar, Horticulture Commissioner, New Delhi; Sh. Shailendra Kumar, Principal Secretary, Agriculture Production Department (APD); Dr. Nazir A. Ganai, Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Kashmir; Dr. Rajbir Singh, Deputy Director General (Agricultural Extension) All the statutory officers of SKUAST-Jammu, scientists, deans and students from SKUAST-Jammu and other institutions attended the programme.

Vice Chancellor SKUAST-Jammu Reviews Varsity Functioning Post Border Disruptions

Prof. B. N. Tripathi, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu (SKUAST-Jammu) chaired a high-level review meeting of statutory officers of the university today to take stock of the academic activities, security arrangements and preparedness across the university campuses in view of recent developments. At the outset, the Vice Chancellor along with all the statutory officers expressed deep gratitude and appreciation for the valiant efforts of the Indian Armed Forces in their decisive actions against terrorist camps. They lauded the courage and unwavering commitment of the forces in safeguarding the sovereignty and security of the nation during the recent enemy aggression along the borders. Following this, the Vice-Chancellor conducted a comprehensive review of the University’s academic, research, and administrative activities. He also reviewed the ongoing activities under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) and Competitiveness Improvement of Agriculture and Allied Sectors Project in Jammu and Kashmir (JKCIP) assessing their progress in the context of recent challenges. He emphasized the need to develop a comprehensive roadmap detailing both short-term and long-term strategies to ensure academic continuity, research activities, enhance campus safety, strengthen digital learning and improve administrative responsiveness across the university in light of the current disruptions. Turning to academic matters, the Vice Chancellor expressed deep concern over the disruption in academic, research and extension activities, particularly for students. He directed all Deans, Directors and faculty members to formulate a revised schedule, ensuring that academic and co-curricular activities disrupted during the previous week are rescheduled over the coming week with extra classroom hours and remedial support so that students are not academically disadvantaged. In a proactive move, the Vice Chancellor stressed the immediate issuance of Identity Cards to all students to ensure secure and systematic access to campus facilities. Addressing concerns related to the prevailing high temperatures, he instructed the Security Incharge and Labour Incharge to remain on alert, especially in the university fields to immediately respond to any potential fire incidents that could occur due to scorching heat. Prof. Tripathi also reviewed the functioning of the university’s e-Studio and issued instructions to the Director Extension to ensure it remains fully operational, facilitating digital content creation and virtual outreach programs. The meeting was attended by all the statutory officers of the university.The meeting concluded with a strong emphasis on coordination, vigilance and commitment among all departments to uphold the academic integrity, safety and institutional resilience of SKUAST-Jammu.

SKUAST Jammu Celebrates International Labour day

As the world commemorates International Labour Day today, it’s a time to honor and acknowledge the invaluable contributions of the working class and laborers who tirelessly strive to build a better future for all. Originating from the Labour Union Movement, this day holds significance in putting an end to exploitation and advocating for fair treatment of workers worldwide. The theme for International Labour Day is Social Justice and Decent Work for all, resonates deeply with the core values of respect, equality, and dignity for every individual. It serves as a reminder that every human being deserves to be treated with care and respect, regardless of their occupation or social status. At the Central Library, Chatha of SKUAST- Jammu this important day was celebrated with fervor and compassion, as unskilled and skilled workers from Central Library, Chatha and Faculty Library, R S Pura came together to organize a series of events aimed at raising awareness and sensitizing their peers about the significance of International Labour Day. The celebration kicked off with an enlightening session on the history and significance of Labour Day, where workers learned about the struggles and triumphs of the labour movement and the importance of advocating for social justice and decent work conditions for all. Following the awareness session, workers actively participated in various activities designed to express gratitude and appreciation towards the laborers and support staff of the libraries of the University. Central Library organized an Awareness Campaign, spreading awareness about the dignity of labourers and their responsibilities, while regular staff engaged in crafting and distributing flowers as beautiful tokens of appreciation for the hardworking individuals who contribute to the smooth functioning of the SKUAST-Jammu Library under the overall guidance and supervision of Prof. R. K. Samnotra, University Librarian. The culmination of the day’s events saw heartfelt gestures of gratitude as library staff had a small get together with a cup of tea/coffee with the housekeeping staff and supporting staff of the Central Library, Chatha. Each appreciable comment was a symbol of recognition and appreciation, conveying the staffs’ deep gratitude for the dedication and hard work of the skilled and unskilled labourers. Through these acts of kindness and appreciation, the SKUAST Jammu demonstrated their commitment to recognizing the efforts of all laborers and honouring the dignity of labour. The celebration of International Labour Day served as a poignant reminder of the importance of solidarity, compassion, and respect for every individual, regardless of their profession or background. Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Samnotra said reiterated that as we reflect on the words of wisdom, “There is joy in work. There is no happiness except in the realisation that we have accomplished something,” let us continue to recognize and celebrate the invaluable contributions of the labourers around us, not just on Labour Day, but every day provided they made substantial contribution in supporting library’s vision of growth and development as per the University policies. He also appreciated the efforts of unskilled labour engaged to facilitate a vibrant and ecologically diverse landscape on 15 kanals of land, massive plantation drives to develop a green library zone with an Open-Air Reading Area to enable library to reduce the carbon prints and to develop green zones into a Hort.-Forestry tourist spot in near future. In nutshell, by leveraging the expertise of University Librarian who has created opportunities for real-world learning, the program has not only enriched labourers’ awareness journey but also nurtured a sense of collaboration and partnership between home and library. Prof. Samnotra expressed his gratitude for extending unwavering support to the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor for his vision to develop library on modern lines facilitating students, scholars and recognising efforts of engaged labour force. The continuous library development is part of University’s commitment towards excellence in the field of agriculture. The staff applauded the initiatives of the University Librarian for the steps initiated towards recognition of contribution made by skilled and unskilled labour engaged. Dr. Samnotra advised all stakeholders to work with zeal and dedication to facilitate university students to pursue knowledge and endeavour for higher avenues of excellence and make the best use of the resources available at SKUAST-Jammu. Teaching, non-teaching staff members including Sh. Leela Dhar Mangi, Asstt. Librarian, Dr. Asha Rani, Library Asstt. from R S Pura, Sh. Amit Sharma, Dr. Meenakshi Devi, Library Asstt., Chatha, other officials from libraries & students participated in the Labour Day celebrations.

Vice Chancellor Open Badminton Tournament Concludes at SKUAST-Jammu

The three-day Vice Chancellor Open Badminton Tournament, organized for students, faculty members and staff concluded successfully at the Sports Complex of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu (SKUAST-J), Chatha. Prof. B. N. Tripathi, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammuwas the Chief Guest on the occasion and distributed trophies to the winners and runner-ups. In his address, Vice Chancellor lauded the efforts of the organizing committee and congratulated the participants for displaying great sportsmanship, enthusiasm and dedicationwhich contributed to the grand success of the tournament. He emphasized the importance of sports in fostering discipline, fitnessand teamwork among students and staffand encouraged continued participation in such events at state, national and international levels. The tournament was organized under the overall supervision of Dr. Sudhakar Dwivedi, Dean Student Welfare and witnessed enthusiastic participation of more than 50 players from various categories. In the students’ category, Antargya (4th Year Agriculture) emerged victorious in men’s singlesdefeating Gurtez (2nd Year Agriculture)while in men’s doubles the duo of Gurtez and Antargya clinched the title against Kashish and Sachin. The women’s singles title went to Sumbul (2nd Year) with Takshi (3rd Year) finishing as runner-up. Fiza and Rithika won the women’s doubles, while Sumbul and Takshi were the runners-up. In a spirited mixed doubles match, Antargya and Shreya outplayed Gurtez and Fiza to win the title. In the teaching staff category, Dr. Sushil won the singles title with Dr. Amitesh finishing as runner-up. In the doubles, the pair of Dr. Vinod Gupta and Dr. P.K. Rai won the tournamentwhile Dr. Sushil and Dr. Amitesh finished runner-up. In the mixed doubles event, Dr. Sushil teamed up with Dr. Puja to claim the title defeating the team of Dr. Amitesh and Dr. Julie D Bandral. All the statutory officers of the university were present during the award ceremony. The tournament concluded with a vote of thanks presented by Dr. Sudhakar Dwivedi, DSW in the presence of all statutory officers and faculty members. The event served as a platform for promoting fitness, friendly competitionand unity among the SKUAST-Jammu fraternity.

Vice-Chancellor's Badminton tournament 2025 inaugurated by Hon'ble Vice Chancellor

The 3rd edition of the Vice-Chancellor's Badminton tournament 2025 was inaugurated by the Honorable Vice Chancellor today on 21.04.2025 at the Indoor sports complex, main campus Chatha. About 50-60 players drawn from different batches and staff members are participating in different categories of the tournament such as Men's singles & doubles , Women's singles and doubles and also the mixed doubles. The students and the staff expressed their gratitude to the Hon'ble vice chancellor and Dean student welfare for taking this initiative which not only helps in physical development but also helps in mental development. All the participating players were introduced to the chief guest the Honorable Vice Chancellor by the Dean student welfare.The Honorable Vice Chancellor played an exhibition match with a participating player to mark the beginning of the tournament. The Honorable Vice Chancellor took a round of the sports complex and enquired about the routine followed in the Gym and other activities and was appreciable of the steps taken. The officers/ officials present during the inaugural function were -Dr. Sushil Gupta, Director Research,Dr Anil Kumar Registrar & Dean Agriculture,Dr. Rajinder Peshin , Director Education, Dr. Vikas Tandon,Dean Horticulture ,Dr Guleria Dean Basic sciencs ,Sh. Madan Lal,Comptroller ,Dr.R K Salgotra Director Institute of Biotechnology, Dr Anil Gupta Medical officer ,Dr Manish Sharma HOD statistics ,Dr Vinod Gupta HOD Extension Education besides others. Dr Sudhakar Dwivedi Dean Student welfare under whose guidence and control the tournament is being organised conducted the inauguration function.

15 Days Incubation Workshop Being Conducted by ABI Centre, SKUAST-Jammu for Selections & Investment Committee (SIC)-2025 Selected Start-Ups from 07.04.2025 Onwards

A 15 days incubation workshop is being organised by Agri-Business Incubation Centre, SKUAST-Jammu under the patronage of Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-J, Prof. B.N. Tripathi from 07.04.2025 onwards for incubatees selected by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Govt. of India for award of healthy grant-in-aid during the Selection & Investment Committee (SIC) evaluation meeting held at Pusa Krishi, ICAR/IARI, New Delhi on 28.02.2025. These start-ups were meticulously trained and mentored by the CEO/P.I. along-with her team at Agri-Business incubation Centre, SKUAST-J so as to give practical shape to their innovative ideas and convert them into market ready solutions. Special sessions were organized for refining their pitch deck presentations so as to groom the start-ups by converting their agri-business set-up & commercialization plans into a concrete winnable format that could be accepted by the Ministry for award of grant-in-aid support. As part of the project guidelines, a 15 days incubation workshop is being conducted to further refine and polish the innovative agri-business ideas and prototypes of the selected start-ups. It aims to connect the start-ups with the relevant industry resources that are a right fit to their budding agri-business ventures. The workshop is targeted towards exploring market linkages as well as pilot testing and validation opportunities available to the start-ups that shall be absolutely crucial for them once they initiate their commercial operations. It shall also help the start-ups in getting access to infrastructure and other facilities both inside and outside the University so as to help them in boosting their start-up operations. The workshop schedule involves a healthy blend of mentorship along-with hands on training sessions as well as industry visit programmes so as to provide the best technical and practical inputs to the budding start-ups of ABI Centre, SKUAST-J.

Dr. Janna Simarnova from the University of Calabria, Italy, Conducts Online Orientation Session for SKUAST-Jammu Students: Collaboration partners

Under the dynamic leadership of Hon'ble Vice Chancellor, Prof. B. N. Tripathi, the collaboration partner, University of Calabria, Italy shared insights into its academic and research programs as part of the international exchange initiative with SKUAST Jammu's 4th year students of Faculty of Agriculture Faculty of Horticulture and Forestry Institute of Biotechnology Dr. Janna Simarnova from Italy provided a detailed presentation on the opportunities available for SKUAST Jammu students in the upcoming admission cycle along with the faculty exchange program planned between the two universities in the coming months} The invaluable support of Dr. S. K. Gupta (Director Research), Dr. Anil K. Sharma (Dean, FoA & Registrar), Dr. Vikas Tondon (Dean, FoH&F), Dr. Romesh Salgotra (Director, IBT), Dr. Sachin Gupta and Dr. Vinod Gupta is highly commendable Dr. Manish Sharma, Head of the Division of Statistics and Computer Science, served as the key liaison officer from SKUAST Jammu

Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu Launches New Website with Enhanced Features

Prof. B.N. Tripathi, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu inaugurated the university's new website (www.skuast.org) today, which boasts several upgraded features. The updated website aims to provide a better user experience through improved accessibility, mobile responsiveness, dynamic content and more user-friendly navigation. Key additions include screen reader compatibility and enhanced student-related information. Prof. Tripathi commended the team led by Dr. Hema Tripathi, Associate Director Extension along with Dr. Manish K. Sharma, Professor & Head, Statistics and Computer Science and Nodal Officer, Data Centre and their team for their efforts in enhancing the university’s digital presence. Dr. Manish Kumar Sharma, Nodal Officer of the NKN Lab & Data Centre presented the new website’s features to the university’s officers emphasizing the website's modern, dynamic design. Th launch was attended by Dr. S.K. Gupta, Director Research, Dr. Rajinder Peshin, Director Education, Dr. Sanjay Khar, Director Planning & Monitoring, Dr. Amrish Vaid, Director Extension, Dr Sushil Sharma, Dean, Faculty of Agricultural Engineering, Dr Rajesh Katoch, Dean, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences & Animal Husbandry, Dr J.S Soodan , Dean, Faculty of Diary Technology, Dr R.K Salgotra, Director Institute of Biotechnology, Dr. Sanjay Guleria, Dean Faculty of Basic Sciences, Dr. Sudhakar Dwivedi, Dean Student Welfare, Dr R.K Samnotra, University Librarian, Sh. Madan Lal, Comptroller, Dr. M.S Bhadwal, Controller Examination and Dr. Hema Tripathi, Assoc. Director Extension along with technical team Sh. Komal Bhat, Sr. Prog. HW, Sh. Atulya Giri, Sr. Prog. SW & Sh. Pankaj Sharma, Technical Officer & Sh. Avneesh Gupta ,Technical Officer. The new website reflects SKUAST-Jammu's commitment to improving digital accessibility and user engagement.

National Conference on Emerging Innovations in Biochemistry & Biotechnology for Holistic Agriculture held at SKUAST Jammu

The National Conference onEmerging Innovations in Biochemistry & Biotechnology for Holistic Agriculture" at SKUAST Jammu (6th–7th March 2025) brought together over 1,500 researchers, academicians, and progressive farmers to drive sustainable agricultural advancements. The inaugural session featured Dr. Jitendra Singh, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge), Science & Technology, Govt. of India, as the Chief Guest, along with Dr. K.S. Chandrasekar, Vice Chancellor, Cluster University Jammu, and Dr. S.L. Mehta, Former President, Society for Plant Biochemistry and Biotechnology (SPBB), as Guests of Honour. Dr Jitendra Singh urged the youth of J&K to prepare for the region’s crucial role in India’s growth story, emphasizing that J&K, with institutions like SKUAST University, can be at the forefront of driving innovation in Agri-Biotech and other emerging sectors. He encouraged young minds to leverage the opportunities created by India’s expanding biotech sector and global scientific leadership.The conference showcased cutting-edge biotech breakthroughs and future-ready farming solutions, making it a transformative event for the future of agriculture, sustainability, and innovation.

Lieutenant Governor of the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir Sh. Manoj Sinha attends ‘Krishak Mela’ At R.S Pura Campus Of SKUAST-J

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today attended the ‘Krishak Mela 2025’ at R.S. Pura campus of SKUAST, Jammu. The Lieutenant Governor felicitated the progressive Farmers, and also inaugurated four facilities at the campus that will strengthen education, research, and farmer training. In his address, the Lieutenant Governor spoke on the remarkable transformation taking place in the Agriculture and Allied sector of UT of J&K, under the guidance of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. He reaffirmed his commitment to drive agricultural advancement in Jammu Kashmir. “We have taken various innovative steps to transform Agricultural landscape of Jammu Kashmir including the launch of flagship project Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP). For the last three consecutive years, J&K has set a record of productivity in agriculture and allied sector. Earlier, we used to adopt extension models and schemes of other states, but now J&K has emerged as a leader in implementing innovative agricultural initiatives that are being cited as models by other states,” the Lieutenant Governor said. He also shared the key initiatives taken by the government to increase productivity and make the agriculture sector more viable through policy interventions, sustainable practices, advanced technologies, and innovative marketing methods. “We have successfully secured GI tags for several traditional products, enhancing their market value and ensuring authenticity. Efforts are underway to obtain GI recognition for more local products, boosting the export potential and market visibility of the region,” the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor commended the SKUAST Jammu for successfully running outreach programme through KVKs and research stations to explore strengths and opportunities in the region. He directed the University to reinforce its outreach to farmers through direct personal contact, ensuring that research-driven innovations and best practices effectively reach the grassroots level. Incubation Centre of SKUAST-Jammu has already incubated more than 100 youths and supported 35 startups obtaining support from Union Ministry of Agriculture. Efforts should be further strengthened to drive agricultural transformation and economic growth, he added. The Lieutenant Governor visited the stalls put up by the farmers, Farmers Producers Organizations and various line departments. He also released a publication “Krishi Adharit Udhyamon ke Madhyam Se: Sashakt aur Smriddh Bhavishya ki Kheti” compiled and edited by KVK, Jammu and launched a Mobile App -Radio Kissan SKUAST Jammu 90.8 FM. The Krishak Mela is aimed to showcase modern agricultural technologies, promote sustainable farming practices and provide a platform for knowledge exchange among farmers, scientists and policymakers. The facilities inaugurated by the Lieutenant Governor includes: Fully Automated Poultry Production Unit equipped with advanced infrastructure designed to enhance poultry farming efficiency and sustainability including PG Lab on Poultry Research; Sanskriti PG Girls’ Hostel; Faculty Club and Residential Quarters. Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Prof. B N Tripathi, Vice Chancellor, SKUAST Jammu; Dr Amrish Vaid Director Extension, SKUAST Jammu; Dr Rajesh Katoch Dean, F.V.SC. & AH SKUAST Jammu, senior officials, HoDs, faculty members and large number of farmers were present.

National Conference on Emerging Innovations in Biochemistry & Biotechnology for Holistic Agriculture held at SKUAST Jammu

The National Conference onEmerging Innovations in Biochemistry & Biotechnology for Holistic Agriculture" at SKUAST Jammu (6th–7th March 2025) brought together over 1,500 researchers, academicians, and progressive farmers to drive sustainable agricultural advancements. The inaugural session featured Dr. Jitendra Singh, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge), Science & Technology, Govt. of India, as the Chief Guest, along with Dr. K.S. Chandrasekar, Vice Chancellor, Cluster University Jammu, and Dr. S.L. Mehta, Former President, Society for Plant Biochemistry and Biotechnology (SPBB), as Guests of Honour. Dr Jitendra Singh urged the youth of J&K to prepare for the region’s crucial role in India’s growth story, emphasizing that J&K, with institutions like SKUAST University, can be at the forefront of driving innovation in Agri-Biotech and other emerging sectors. He encouraged young minds to leverage the opportunities created by India’s expanding biotech sector and global scientific leadership.The conference showcased cutting-edge biotech breakthroughs and future-ready farming solutions, making it a transformative event for the future of agriculture, sustainability, and innovation.

ISVMCON-2025 Conference held at SKUAST-Jammu

The 41st Annual Convention of the Indian Society for Veterinary Medicine (ISVMCON-2025) and National Conference commenced at the Faculty of Veterinary Sciences & Animal Husbandry (FVSc& AH), SKUAST-Jammu. This three-day event gathered leading veterinarians, researchers, and industry experts to discuss "Futuristic Approach in Animal Health Care and Welfare Through Specialty Medicine, Digital Health Technology, and Artificial Intelligence." Dr. Shiv Prasad Kimothi, Member, ASRB, inaugurated the conference as Chief Guest, emphasizing the role of AI and digital technology in veterinary practices. Presiding over the event, Prof. B.N. Tripathi, Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-J, highlighted the One Health approach, stressed the need for rapid technology transfer to address zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and sustainable livestock farming. Dr. Rajesh Katoch, Dean, FVSc& AH, welcomed participants, while Dr. Jaswinder Soodan, Dean, College of Dairy Technology, spoke on AI-driven diagnostics and specialty medicine. Prof. R. Ramprabhu, ISVM President, reflected on ISVM’s four-decade contribution to veterinary medicine, and Prof. R.V. Gaikwad, General Secretary, ISVM, outlined the conference’s objectives. With over 400 participants, the conference featured plenary lectures, paper presentations, and panel discussions, concluding on February 19, 2025.

Vegetable Day Celebrated at SKUAST-Jammu

Prof. B.N. Tripathi, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu, inaugurated Vegetable Day at SKUAST-Jammu, organized by the Division of Vegetable Science, Faculty of Horticulture & Forestry. The event emphasized the early raising of planting material for cucurbits and solanaceous vegetables to maximize profits. A large number of farmers received vegetable saplings, and experts delivered talks on vegetable nurseries, organic fertilizers, leafy vegetables, and cucurbit sapling transplanting. The program featured lectures by Dr. Sandeep Chopra, Dr. Satesh Kumar, Dr. Manoj Kumar, and Dr. Puja Rattan, with Dr. Sanjeev Kumar coordinating the event. Attended by over 150 farmers and farm women, the event also included an exposure visit to experimental fields and protected structures for practical insights.

Live Webcast of PM-KISAN 19th Instalment Release Held at KVK Jammu

The live webcasting of the 19th instalment of the PM-KISAN scheme by Hon’ble Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi from Bhagalpur, Bihar, was held at the KVK Jammu, R.S. Pura. Krishi Vigyan Kendra Jammu, operating under the leadership of Prof. B.N. Tripathi, Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu, organized the event. The program was virtually joined by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Hon’ble Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office, Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Minister of State for Department of Atomic Energy and Department of Space.The programme was also attended by Sh. Jugal Kishore Sharma, Hon’ble Member of Parliament from Jammu , Dr. Narinder Singh Raina, MLA R.S. Pura, Dr. Gharu Ram Bhagat, MLA Suchetgarh, along with Prof. B.N. Tripathi, Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu, S. Arvinder Singh Reen, Director Agriculture Jammu, and other key officials.A large gathering of farmers, rural youth, progressive growers, farm women, and FPO members participated in the event, reflecting strong engagement from the agricultural community.

10-Days Short Course on Entrepreneurship in Entomology Inaugurated

Prof. B.N. Tripathi, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, inaugurated a 10-days (13 to 23 Feb) short course on "Entrepreneurship and Startup Opportunities in Entomology", organized by the Division of Entomology, Faculty of Agriculture, and sponsored by ICAR-New Delhi. In his keynote address, Prof. Tripathi commended the initiative and urged participants to apply their knowledge for innovative ventures in entomology. Dr. S.K. Gupta, Director Research, highlighted its role in bridging research and practical applications, while Dr. Anil Sharma, Dean FoA, stressed the need for innovation in agriculture. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. R.K. Gupta, Head, Division of Entomology.

National symposium on Exploring Veterinary Pathology and Diagnostic Innovations begins at SKUAST-Jammu

A three- day 41st Annual Conference of the Indian Association of Veterinary Pathologists (IAVP), 15th Annual Meeting of the Indian College of Veterinary Pathologists (ICVP) and National Symposium on “Exploring Veterinary Pathology and Diagnostic Innovations in Animal and Poultry Disease Amidst Climatic Challenges” began today at SKUAST-Jammu. The conference is being organized by the Division of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, SKUAST-Jammu, Indian Association of Veterinary Pathologists and Indian College of Veterinary Pathologists. Dr Sanjay Kumar, Chairman, ASRB, New Delhi, was the chief guest in the inaugural function while Dr Naveen Kumar, Director, ICMR- National Institute of Virology, Pune, was the guest of honour. Prof B N Tripathi, Vice-Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu, presided over the event. Dr Sanjay Kumar highlighted the critical intersection of veterinary pathology and climate science in addressing the challenges faced by the livestock and poultry sectors. He also suggested for new courses like Veterinary engineering and Veterinary ecology in changing scenario. Prof B N Tripathi, in his presidential address, emphasized the vital role of veterinary pathology in safeguarding animal health and ensuring the sustainability of livestock production in an era marked by climate change. He also talked about One-Health concept in mitigating the zoonotic diseases. Dr Naveen Kumar informed that four Zonal centres of National Institute of Virology (NIV) will be established very soon. He encouraged the delegates to think beyond traditional boundaries. Dr S K Gupta, Director Research, SKUAST-Jammu elaborated the research achievements of SKUAST-Jammu. Dr G A Balasubramaniam, Secretary General, IAVP, and Dr R V S Pawaiya, Secretary, ICVP, presented reports on the activities and achievements of their respective organizations. Earlier, Dr Rajesh Katoch, Dean, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, SKUAST-J, and Co-Chairman of VPC-2024 provided a brief overview of the conference. During the inaugural session, conference Compendium and books were released by the guests and awards were presented to recognize outstanding contributions in the field of veterinary pathology. Proceedings of the inaugural program were conducted by Dr Ankur Sharma while vote of thanks was presented by Dr Pankaj Goswami.

Chief Minister for focus on agri varsities to tackle climate change, boost J&K’s economy

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today emphasized the critical role of agriculture in addressing climate change and improving the economy of Jammu and Kashmir.Jammu local businesses He was speaking at the inauguration of the four-day National Agriculture Summit & Farmers’ Fair-2024 at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST), Jammu. Highlighting the exigency of climate change, the Chief Minister said, “Climate change is a huge challenge, and the responsibility lies on SKUAST (Kashmir and Jammu) to address it and assist our farmers. We can no longer depend solely on rain and snowfall, as climate patterns have drastically shifted. For instance, in our childhood, snowfall would arrive in December; now, it comes in February. Our average temperatures are also rising. To adapt, we need to promote modern agricultural practices, introduce new techniques and technologies, and raise awareness among farmers.” He lauded the progress made by SKUAST-Jammu in recent years, saying, “I felt elated on visiting SKUAST-Jammu. Since my last visit, the university has made remarkable progress, for which I congratulate the Vice-Chancellor and his entire team.” The Chief Minister expressed concern over the neglect of agriculture in discussions about J&K’s development. “In Jammu and Kashmir, we find farmers in every corner, yet when we discuss progress, we focus on factories, tourism, and facilities for pilgrims at religious places. Sadly, the contribution of farmers and the agriculture and allied sectors often goes unnoticed,” he said. He stressed the economic potential of agriculture and allied sectors, stating, “I firmly believe that focusing on these sectors can significantly transform J&K’s economy. We rely heavily on imports for many necessities, such as dairy products, meat, and oilseeds. Our efforts should aim to produce these locally through import substitution. If we achieve surplus production, we can sell it outside, leading to a positive shift in J&K’s economy.” Omar Abdullah called for efforts to restore farming as a viable and respected livelihood for future generations. “Our farmers must feel confident that their hard work on the land will generate income. However, it is disheartening that the younger generation is distancing itself from agriculture. Productive agricultural land is increasingly being used for non-agricultural purposes because our children hesitate to connect with agriculture and allied sectors. This mindset needs to change,” he lamented. Speaking about Jammu’s agricultural potential, he said, “multiple-farming, cultivating staple crops, and utilizing land for high-value products hold immense potential. Jammu is already renowned for its RS Pura Basmati, Rajma and Gucchi mushrooms from Kishtwar. Products like olives and exotic fruits, which were unheard of just a few years ago, are now becoming common in our homes. There is no scarcity of potential here.” He further emphasized the importance of undertaking research and ensuring that its benefits reach every corner of J&K. “The practical implementation of research is crucial, and the responsibility lies in ensuring that its benefits reach every corner of Jammu and Kashmir. Farmers must be informed about the advantages of these practices so that agriculture becomes productive and attractive, even for the younger generation.” The Chief Minister also pledged his Government’s unwavering support to SKUAST, saying, “This four-day program is an excellent initiative for farmers and visitors to learn and benefit from. My Government will fully support and assist the university in its endeavors. We stand shoulder to shoulder with you, and you will always find our doors open to help this institution thrive.” During the event, Omar Abdullah released several books on agriculture and research authored by various experts. He also felicitated progressive farmers from Jammu division for their contributions to the sector. Earlier, the Chief Minister inaugurated the National Agriculture Summit & Farmers’ Fair-2024 in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, Minister for Agriculture Production Javid Ahmad Dar, Vice Chancellor SKUAST-Jammu BN Tripathi, MLA RS Pura-Jammu South Dr. Narinder Singh Raina and other dignitaries. On the occasion, Omar Abdullah laid the foundation stone of the Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship Development at the main campus of SKUAST-Jammu and planted saplings of various fruit plants alongside the Deputy CM, Agriculture Minister, MLA, and VC SKUAST-Jammu. The Chief Minister also inspected stalls set up by agriculture and allied departments, interacting with staff and farmers.

4-day National Agriculture Summit at SKUAST-Jammu.

Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology (SKUAST) Jammu is organizing four days National Agriculture Summit – 2024 from November 20, 2024 at Main Campus, Chatha.Jammu local businesses Theme of National Agriculture Summit- 2024 is “Harnessing Innovations in Agriculture and Allied Sciences”, underscoring the transformative role of technology and sustainable practices in modern farming. This was informed by Prof B N Tripathi, Vice-Chancellor of SKUAST-Jammu, while briefing media persons about the mega event, here today. “National Agriculture Summit- 2024 will showcase cutting-edge technologies developed by research organizations, alongside valuable insights into smart agricultural practices. This will provide a unique opportunity for participants to engage with innovative solutions and best practices in the Jammu region,” he said. With an expected attendance of twelve to fifteen thousand participants from J&K and neighbouring States, this summit will feature a series of impactful workshops, each designed to equip farmers and stakeholders with the latest insights and practical skills in agriculture and allied sciences. Some of the sessions would be on Agri Startups and Agripreneurship, Agri Mechanization, Automation, and Digital Agriculture, Precision Livestock Farming, Dairying, and Fish Farming, High-Tech Agriculture and Horticulture, Empowering Rural Women in Agriculture and Beyond, Farmer-Industry-Academia Linkages, Natural and Organic Farming, Post- Harvest Management and Agriculture Marketing and Rural youth and students on career opportunities in agriculture. The fair will also showcase a captivating dog show, vegetable and fruit displays and a flower show, celebrating the region’s agricultural diversity and aesthetic appeal. A state-of-the-art exhibition and drone demonstration will introduce cutting-edge technology in agriculture. Additionally, the livestock and poultry show will be the highlight of the event. Further, there will be different stalls from various sectors viz., public, private, NGOs, SHG/ start-up and progressive farmers, depicting the latest farm technologies such as hydroponics, Integrated Farming System, improved farm machinery, irrigation systems, mobile soil testing lab and exotic vegetables related to farmer welfare. SKUAST-Jammu is organizing this mega event in collaboration with the Departments of Agriculture Production and Farmers Welfare, Horticulture, Animal Husbandry, Sheep Husbandry, Sericulture, Fisheries, Horticulture Planning & Marketing, Floriculture, Gardens and Parks, J&K State Advisory Board for Development of Kisans, Department of School Education, J&K Youth Services and Sports Department, Indian Farmers Fertilizer Cooperative Ltd, National Fertilizers Limited, Chandigarh and National Horticulture Board, Govt of India.

VC SKUAST-Jammu Inaugurates High-End Research Facilities at Institute of Biotechnology

Prof. B.N. Tripathi, Vice-Chancellor, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu inaugurated high-end research facility developed under VC Flexi grant scheme of Holistic Agriculture Development Plan (HADP) project of Govt. of J&K UT. The facility includes high throughput transfection Particle Delivery System and a next generation sequencing unit. Prof. Tripathi expressed satisfaction on the establishment of such a facility which will give a boost to the genomic research for accelerated and precision crop improvement. The VC advised the scientists to utilize these high-end equipments to their fullest potential, and strive for breakthroughs that could contribute significantly to the field of biotechnology and beyond.

Later, Prof. B.N. Triptahi interacted with a group of technicians of Department of Horticulture, JK UT Govt., who were imparted two months training on ‘Tissue Culture Practices and Protocols for Scaled upProduction of Quality Planting Material in EconomicallyImportant Fruit Plants’ at Institute of Biotechnology, SKUAST-Jammu with financial support under HADP.

Present on the occasion were Sh. C.L. Sharma, Director Horticulture; Prof. S.K. Gupta, Director Research; Prof. AmrishVaid, Director Extension; Prof. R.K. Salgotra, Director Institute of Biotechnology, Dr. HemaTripathi, Associate Director Extension and faculty members of the Institute.

Prof. B.N. Tripathi emphasized on the importance of conducting such trainings for technical staff of line departments to make them more skillful for generating quality planting material of economically important crops. He ensured continuous technical backup of the biotechnology scientists to the Department of Horticulture in establishing and operationalizing the Tissue Culture Laboratories being established at Mega Fruit Nursery, Chakroi. Prof. Tripathi laid stress on developing cost effective commercial tissue culture protocols for fruit plants such as strawberry, citrus fruits and banana.

Sh. C.L. Sharma expressed gratitude to the University for training manpower of the Department in tissue culture which will boost production of planting material for meeting demand of the farming community. He promised the financial support to the University through projects for need based research endeavors. The Director Horticulture felt need of surveying the fruit growing pockets of the Jammu region for estimating the production potential of major fruit crops.

Dr. S.K. Gupta appreciated the efforts of the concerned scientists and cooperation provided by the Department of Horticulture for conducting the training programme. Dr. HemaTripathi took feed back from the trainees and suggested that a certificate course in Tissue Culture may be instituted and offered on regular basis.

Earlier, Prof. R.K. Salgotra welcomed the dignitaries and presented an outline of newly created research facilities, along with brief report of activities of the training programme. Prof. Salgotra conveyed his gratitude to the Vice-Chancellor for providing funds for establishing high-end research facilities under VC Flexi grant.

The activities of the programme were coordinated by Prof. Manmohan Sharma, Course Coordinator and vote of thanks was presented by Dr. Susheel Sharma.

Second day of ‘VET FEST 2K24’ showcases cultural extravaganza

On the second day of VET FEST 2K24 veterinary students showcased their talents in cultural extravaganza‘RangRez’ hosted by the Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry at SKUAST-Jammu, R S Pura.

Dr. Rajesh Katoch, Dean, F.V.Sc & A.H graced the occasion and inaugurated the event alongside other Faculty members. Students showcased their talents in cultural events like Dhanak, the Dance competition (Solo, Duet and Group folk dance); Suriley the singing competition (Solo, Duet and Group); Kehkashan, the fashion show, Express, the skit and drama. The VET FEST 2K24 is being organized under the guidance of Dr. B.N Tripathi, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu. The event is being conducted in collaboration with IDP-NAHEP, SKUAST-Jammu.

Prof. Rajesh Katoch, the Patron of the Organizing Committee and Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Sciences & Animal Husbandry reaffirmed that platforms like Vet Fest serve as catalysts for holistic growth, enabling participants to explore their potential beyond the confines of traditional academic settings and encouraging them to embrace a spirit of exploration and experimentation.

Dr H.R Bhardwaj, Organizing Secretary of VET FEST 2K24 extended warm welcome to all the invited guests and audience.

The event witnessed and enjoyed by invited guests, HoDs, Veterinary teaching and non-teaching staff members and students.

SKUAST-Jammu Organizes Events on Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE)

Mission LiFE: Ideation and Poster competition at SKUAST-Jammu

Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu in its mission to create awareness among students regarding “Mission LiFE” conducted two events on Poster Making and Ideation under the theme ‘Waste to Wealth in Agriculture, Horticulture, Agroforestry and Livestock Farming’. The objective of organizing events was to scale up vision of Mission Life into on-ground actions.In the poster making contest, 60 talented participants showcased their creativity and commitment to the cause while the Ideation competition witnessed the active participation of 13 candidates who presented innovative ideas for creation of wealth from waste through PowerPoint presentations.The events were managed by Dr. Manmohan Sharma, Dr. Ankur Rastogi, Dr. Sachin Gupta and Dr. Partiksha Raghuvanshi.

Mission LiFE, proposed at Glasgow Climate Change Conference (COP 26) in November 2021 and launched on 20th October, 2022 by Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi, is envisioned as an India-led global mass movement that will nudge individual and collective action to protect and preserve the environment.

The enthusiasm and dedication exhibited by the students was commendable, reflecting their commitment to generate innovative solutions for addressing pressing environmental challenges caused by diverse agro wastes. Dr. Hema Tripathi, Associate Director Extension, SKUAST-Jammu and Prof. A.K. Raina, former Professor and Head, Department of Environment Sciences, University of Jammu were the judges in Ideation contest while Shri Sat Paul Deol judged the poster competition.

The programme was held under the overall patronage of Prof. B.N. Tripathi, Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu. Prof. Rajinder Peshin, Director of Education is the Chairperson while Prof. Sudhakar Dwivedi, Dean Student Welfare is acting as the Coordinator of the Programmes being organized under Mission LiFe at SKUAST-Jammu.

The student activities under Mission LiFE at SKUAST-Jammu are being organized in coordination with NAHEP-IDP and NSS unit of the University.These events shall serve as precursors to the main function scheduled to be held at the Baba Jitto Auditorium, SKUAST-Jammu on May 13, 2024.

Valedictory Function of One Month Agri-entrepreneurship Training Programmes held by Agri-Business Incubator, SKUAST-Jammu

Prof. B. N. Tripathi, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu remarked that seeds of creativity and innovative thinking need to be sowed in the minds of young students from an early stage so asto inspire young students to look towards developing their own agri-business ventures utilizing their education and learnings. He was speaking as Chief Guest during the valedictory function of one month agri-entrepreneurship training programmes for 7 th batch of incubatees of Agri-Business Incubator, SKUAST-Jammu from 19.03.2024 to 25.04.2024 under RKVY-RAFTAAR scheme of Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, GoI. The main focus of the training programme was to provide academic, business & technical training to the selected incubatees so as to give shape to their creative thinking & innovative ideas for setting up their agri start-ups. Prof. Tripathi outlined the importance of boosting the agri start-up ecosystem by motivating young students to look beyond traditional job opportunities and broaden their vision to become job providers by running their own enterprises. He emphasized that the students should be imparted practical entrepreneurship training from the undergraduate level itself so that they are in a position to set up their own ventures during their student

stint only. He advised budding entrepreneurs and young students to have regular brain storming sessions on problems of the agriculture sector which shall help in creation of novel innovative ideas which can be converted into commercial ventures by initiating business operations from the University itself. He assured all stakeholders that complete support and hand-holding shall be provided by the University to all those who are looking forward to go down the path of agri-entrepreneurship. He also congratulated Prof. Jyoti Kachroo, Head, Division of AEABM, CEO & P.I, Agri Business Incubator, SKUAST-J and her entire team on the successful completion of the training. Earlier, Prof. Jyoti Kachroo, in her address, formally welcomed Prof. B.N. Tripathi, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-J and expressed heartfelt gratitude towards him for sparing some of his valuable time for the event. She also welcomed the academic and administrative officers of the University namely Prof. Anil Sharma, Dean- Faculty of Agriculture, Prof. S.E.H Rizvi, Dean- Faculty of Basic Sciences, Prof. Sudhakar Dwivedi, Dean-Student Welfare, Prof. Vikas Tandon, Dean- Faculty of Horticulture & Forestry, Prof. Sushil Sharma, Dean-Faculty of Agricultural Engineering, Prof. J.S. Soodan, Dean- Faculty of Dairy Technology, Dr. R.K Samnotra, University Librarian and Dr. Mahital Jamwal, Associate, Director Research. She outlined that 7 batches of potential agri-entrepreneurs consisting of 78 incubatees have now been trained at ABI, SKUAST-J and funding to the tune of Rs. 2.88 crores in total has been sanctioned in favor of 26 start-ups. She also informed the house about some new initiatives introduced involving special funding support to students and women entrepreneurs along-with cash prizes to best start-ups on the basis of their innovative ideas and products. Prof. Anil Kumar, Dean FoA, in his opening remarks enlightened the gathering about the RKVY-RAFTAAR scheme of GoI and its positive impact in developing agri start-up ecosystem in the region. He emphasized on the importance of aligning higher education and research with solving practical on ground issues which can become successful commercial ventures in the future. The incubatees also shared their experience regarding the training programme and expressed their gratitude towards the efforts made by ABI, SKUAST-J under the guidance of Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-J for facilitating and guiding them during their training journey. Certificates were also distributed to the incubatees by the Chief Guest. Proceedings of the programme were conducted by Dr. Anil Bhat, Co-P.I

Asstt. Prof. AEABM. Dr. Yamini Raut and Mr. Tarunjeet Singh from ABI, SKUAST-J facilitated the arrangements for the event. At the end, formal vote of thanks was presented by Dr. S.P Singh, Co-P.I and Professor, AEABM thanking all the present dignitaries for their valuable time and participation in the event.