Jammu,05^th December, 2023

Perth, Australia, November, 24

A delegation led by Vice Chancellor SKUAST -Jammu, Prof. B. N. Tripathi visited University of Western Australia and entered into MoU for forging academic and research collaboration. Discussions between the two institutions were held to work out modalities for mutually beneficial relationship. The research areas mutually agreed upon were plant biotechnology, economics & agribusinesses, precision agriculture, horticulture, rumen microbiology, stress management in animals, plant physiology, soil science & biochemistry. Both the universities agreed to workout the modalities for academic associations, faculty visits & students dual degree programme. The fields identified were plant breeding and genetics, Natural Resource Management (NRM) & plant production. The Australian delegation led by Prof. Amit Chakma, Vice-Chancellor included Prof. Kadambot Siddique, Director, Prof. Phil Vercoe & Mr. B. Moncrieff whereas Indian delegation headed by Prof. B. N. Tripathi, Vice-Chancellor included Prof. B. C. Sharma, Dean, FoA Prof. M.S. Bhadwal, Dean FVSc& Prof S. K. Gupta, Dean, FoH&F. The Indian delegation also visited state of art facilities at Shenton Park field station, center for microscopy, characterization and analysis, ARC center for Plant Energy Biology, besides high tech horticulture facilities like glass houses and growth chambers for agriculture & horticulture crops.

Melbourne, Australia, November, 22

In continuation to celebration of Fit India Movement and Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav and to  inculcate health consciousness among faculty and students  Dean student Welfare under  the able guidance of the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor SKUAST-Jammu Prof. B.N. Tripathi Organised, ‘Vice Chancellors Badminton Tournament-2023’ at sports complex of SKUAST-Jammu from 17^th of October to 19^th of October, 2023. In the tournament overall 150 players participated in different events.  under the category of students girls singles titles was won by Liza wheras, Itakshi was the runners up , in the doubles event in same category Liza and Fiza Kazmi won the title and damini and Parvi were runners up. In boys category single title was won by Hansraj Yadav  and  Gurtez Singh was the runners up doubles the pair Hansraj Yadav and Priyatam  won the title whereas Sourabh and Akshit was the runners up. In the category of Faculty Dr Sushmita won the Single title while Anshita was the runners up. In men’s category the pair of Dr Akhil and Dr Susheel won the doubles titles in the same Dr P K Rai  and Dr Puneet Choudhary was the runners up. in Mens single title was won by Dr Susheel Sharma.

In the prize distribution ceremony Prof Rajesh Katoch  Dean Student Welfare welcomes  Hon’ble Vice chancellor who was the chief guest and thanked the authorities for extending all possible facilities for organisation of this event. On the occasion HVC praised the efforts of Dean Students welfare for organising such events in the university. Vice Chancellor also appreciate all participants for making their presence in such events. HVC stressed upon the students in particular to participate in all sports events to keep themselves fit and healthy.  Organisation committee of this event comprised of Dr Subhash C Kashyap NSS Coordinator, Dr Arvinder Singh , Dr Susheel Sharma, Dr Suhmita, Dr Kawardeep Kour, Dr Aditi lal Koul, Dr Nomita Laishram,  Er. Kewal Raina, Kuldeep Manhas and Neeraj Gupta besides PG and UG students. the function culminated with the vote of thanks by Dean Student welfare and serving of snacks among players.

A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed today between Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu, Chatha and Narsingh Seva Kendra (NSK), Village Khoon, Udhampur district, under the esteemed supervision of Prof. B.N. Tripathi, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of SKUAST-Jammu, with the objective to promote natural and organic farming, dairy farming and other allied agricultural activities in the area of Research and Extension.

The MOU was signed by Dr. S.K. Gupta, Director Extension, SKUAST-Jammu and Vikram Gujral, President of Narsingh Seva Kendra, Khoon, Udhampur, in presence of Raman Suri Vice President NSK, Naresh Gupta Treasurer and others members of NSK namely, Surinder Mohan, Sanjeev Sharma, S.K. Sethi, Jagdish Langar, Dr. Sanjay Kaushal, Dr. Narender Panotra and Om Parkash, President Gau Seva Samiti, Mandli. The representative of SKUAST-Jammu who participated included Dr. R.K. Samnotra Director Research, Dr. S.K. Gupta, Registrar, Dr. M.S. Bhadwal Dean, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Dr. Mahital Jamwal, Associate Director Research.

SKUAST-Jammu is a multi-campus university with its headquarter located at Chatha, Jammu. The University is mandated to address the basic, strategies and applied research and extension of technologies related to enhanced production in agriculture; Horticulture & Forestry; Agricultural Engineering; Basic Sciences; Veterinary Sciences & Animal Husbandry and Dairy Technology. The University has 10 Research Stations/Sub Stations and 09 Krishi Vigyan Kendras located in different agro climatic zones of Jammu and is developing high standards of excellence in education, research and extension for the betterment of farming community, whereas, Narsingh Seva Kendra, Khoon is a unit of Shri Narsingh Go Seva Samiti, Mandli, Kathua and is engaged in Gauseva activities and extend its service area by developing constructive programmes for the education and self-reliance of the farming community by disseminating the knowledge and skills for promoting entrepreneurship in agriculture.

Through this MOU, SKUAST-J and NSK will coordinate in the areas of mutual interest, especially development and demonstration of advanced technologies for farmers’ benefits, entrepreneurship development and business management. Dissemination of successful technologies through training and demonstration would also be undertaken with both long term and short term goals, keeping in view the interests of farmers, startups and entrepreneurs of Jammu and Kashmir regions. This agreement will promote establishment of dairy farms, mushroom cultivation, high density orcharding, demonstration units of crops, farmer training centres and Yoga Training Centres for providing firsthand experience to the farming community and unemployed youth. During his address, Vice Chancellor SKUAST-Jammu Prof. B.N. Tripathi ensured full technical support from the University to Narsingh Seva Kendra for the benefit of farming community of the region.

A formal vote of thanks was extended by Dr. Mahital Jamwal, Associate Director Research.

Nine students from SKUAST Jammu will be visiting Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia for a two-month long internship under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and World Bank sponsored National Agricultural Higher Education Project (NAHEP). The students today met the Honorable Vice Chancellor of SKUAST Jammu, Dr. B. N. Tripathi. He congratulated the students for their commendable performance in the selection process and wished them the best of luck in their upcoming academic endeavours at WSU. He said that he is confident that the students will make the institution proud and bring back a wealth of knowledge and experience to share with their peers upon their return.He provided them with the tips of how to best utilize the opportunity as well as how to interact with their colleagues at WSU. The students thanked the Vice Chancellor for the opportunity and conveyed their excitement at the opportunity. The selected students will embark on this enriching journey to WSU, further expanding their horizons and contributing to their personal and academic growth. The internships is a opportunity for these bright minds to engage in cutting-edge agricultural technology, gain international exposure, and establish invaluable connections. The students belonged to Faculty of Agriculture and School of Biotechnology of SKUAST Jammu. Dr. B.C. Sharma, Dean, Agriculture and Dr. S. K. Gupta, Registrar were also present. Prof. Vikas Sharma, coordinator of the NAHEP earlier introduced the students and apprised the administration about the internship programme. He apprised that students will be exposed to hands on training along with academic lectures covering modern aspects of agriculture, including digital tools in agriculture, automation and AI, climate change, protected cultivation etc.

Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu organized an important seminar on the crucial topic of  Critical Stress Management through Positive Thinking, Scientific Meditation, and Stress Coping on October 13, 2023 under the dynamic leadership of Prof. B. N. Tripathi, Honorable Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu and Chief Patron of the event. This event brought together a distinguished group of speakers and dignitaries. The seminar featured well-known individuals from the world of academia and healthcare.The seminar began with an opening address from Dr. B. N Tripathi, Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu who spoke about the critical issue of stress and the Crucial Role of sound Sleep for Managing Mental Health. He also expounded on the challenges and stress that students commonly face during their academic journey. Some of the notable speakers included Dr. J. P Sharma, Former Vice Chancellor of SKUAST J Dr. Mohit Gupta, Professor of Cardiology at GB Pant Hospital in New Delhi and Dr. Amitash Ojha, Assistant Professor at IIT Jammu. Prof. J. P Sharma spoke on Happiness is Happening and shared valuable insights on stress management and achieving happiness, offering practical strategies that attendees could apply in their . He said Stress management is the key to unlocking the door to happiness, as it empowers individuals to navigate life challenges with resilience and embrace a more content and fulfilling existence. Dr. Mohit Gupta followed with an enlightening discussion Seven Transformation that will Change your Life forever. He elaborated on stress management, scientific meditation, and effective ways to cope with stress and said Stress management is crucial for maintaining physical and mental health, with scientific meditation offering a powerful tool to reduce stress. He was of the view that effective coping strategies, such as exercise, mindfulness, and seeking support, help individuals navigate life challenges with resilience and composure.  Dr. Amitash Ojha spoke on the topic Not who, but who are you and through his candid sharing of personal experiences with stress, he made a profound contribution to the seminar discussions. He skillfully delved into various facets of stress, impact on individuals and strategies for managing it effectively. Earlier, Dr. Vikas Sharma, Prof. & Head, Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry and PI, NAHEP-IDP  welcomed all the dignitaries and guests. Following this, a ceremonial lighting of the lamps marked the auspicious beginning of the event. All the statutory officers of the university were also present on the occasion. Also the seminar received enthusiastic participation from the faculty members and students of SKUAST Jammu,  underscoring the university commitment to addressing and managing critical stress-related challenges in today world. This event was a significant step in fostering knowledge and strategies for dealing with stress and promoting overall well-being. The proceedings of the seminar were conducted by Dr. Vivek M Arya, Associate Professor & Organizing Secretary and vote of thanks was presented by Dr. Sanku Borkataki, Organizing Secretary of the seminar. 

SKUAST Jammu organised G 20 Lecture series for engaging Young minds. The agenda for lecture series was on G 20 Indias Presidency, Agriculture issues in G 20 and sustainable agriculture for resilient Agri Food System with Climate Smart Approach, Prize distribution of Pre event activities. The event marked a significant gathering of dignitaries, experts, and students, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas aimed at advancing global understanding in areas crucial to sustainable development.

The event was honored to have Dr. Trilochan Mohapatra as, a distinguished figure in the field, as the chief guest. Dr. Mohapatra delivered a captivating lecture on the theme of “Sustainable Agriculture and Resilient food systems.” His insights shed light on the importance of climate-smart approaches in ensuring the future of agriculture and food security.

Dr. B N Tripathi, Vice-Chancellor of SKUAST Jammu and Chairman of G 20 University Connect Programme at SKUAST Jammu, concluded the series of eminent speakers by reflecting on the occasion. Dr. Tripathi expressed pride in the universitys pioneering role in hosting this significant event. He underscored the need for sustainable agriculture and tapped into the regions potential as a top producer of walnuts, apples, and saffron. His speech resonated with the audience, emphasizing the importance of a collaborative approach.

Sanjay Bhattacharya, the former Secretary of the Ministry of External Affairs, India, gave a special lecture on G20 Indian presidency. Mr. Bhattacharya delved into the transformative era India is undergoing, positioning the country as a key player in the global economy. He provided intricate details about the G20s evolution from addressing economic crises to shaping a multitude of global initiatives. Bhattacharya insights underscored the significance of G20, which represents 2/3^rd of the worlds population, 85% of the GDP, and 75% of trade. He emphasized the G20s pillars, including energy transition, digital transformation, climate funds, and accelerating Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).Dr. Smita Sirohi, Joint Secretary (G-20) in the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India, contributed to the discourse by discussing the moral obligations that accompany G20 commitments. She highlighted Indias vital food programs like the POSHAN scheme and advocated for fortification, reducing food losses, and a comprehensive "one health" approach.

Dr. RC Agarwal, Deputy Director General (Education) ICAR, in his address, lauded the significance of youth in shaping the future and acknowledged the increasing engagement of girls in the agricultural sector.

Prof  Rajinder Peshin, the coordinator of the G20 programme, welcome and presented a report on Pre event student activities during the G 20 University connect Programme by SKUAST Jammu.An awards function recognized student achievements in various pre-event activities, including poster-making, essay writing, quiz, ideation, and rangoli competitions. The winners showcased their creativity and dedication across these diverse categories. In the poster-making competition, Yashvi Sharma, a student from the Faculty of Agriculture, SKUAST-Jammu secured the first position, while in the essay writing competition, Gurner Kaur a student from GDC RS Pura claimed the top spot. GDC for Women Bhagwatinagar emerged as the quiz champion, and in the Ideathon, a veterinary student from SKUAST Jammu secured the first prize. Faculty of Agriculture, SKUAST-Jammu triumphed in the rangoli competition.

Following the lectures, Dr. Rohit,Saini Fellow Research and Information System for developing countries, initiated a dynamic question-and-answer session, providing students an opportunity to interact directly with the esteemed guests and deepen their understanding of the discussed topics.

The event drew to a close with a heartfelt vote of thanks, extended by Dr. S K Gupta, Registrar, SKUAST-Jammu expressing gratitude to all participants, dignitaries, and contributors who made the event a resounding success. The closing note was marked by a spirited rendition of the national anthem, symbolizing unity and shared aspirations.

Ten days High End Skilling Workshop on Modern Analytical Techniques in Food Biochemistry sponsored under Vigyan Accelerate Karyashala Scheme of DST-SERB organized from 4^th to 13^th July, 2023 concluded at Division of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Sciences SKUAST-Jammu. Dr. B. N. Tripathi, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu was the Chief Guest during the Valedictory function. In his address, Dr. Tripathi stressed upon the importance of Modern Analytical Techniques in Food Biochemistry to know the nutritional status of any food item. He congratulated the organizers for meticulously selecting and training students on such an important area of science. He further said that these techniques are more relevant in present day health conscious society. Dr. Tripathi was of the opinion that the science is moving fast and both scientists and students need to remain acquainted with the emerging new high end technologies. He emphasized upon the students to look for entrepreneurship opportunities in the area of food technology to become self reliant budding entrepreneurs. Hon’ble Vice Chancellor suggested scientists to work on the basic scientific aspects of food science as food is the lifeline. Earlier, Dr. S.E.H. Rizvi, Dean, Faculty of Basic Sciences welcomed the guests and appraised the house about the activities and research work being carried out in the faculty. He hoped that the students have immensely benefitted from the workshop as this had provided them opportunities for exposure to hands-on skill on Modern Analytical Techniques in Biochemistry. Dr. Moni Gupta, Professor, Biochemistry and Course Director of the workshop presented the detailed report of the workshop and the topics covered during the ten days of training programme. Twenty students from different institutes and Universities of India including DCRUST, Murthal; SVPUAT, Meerut; MDS University, Rohtak; CCHU, Hissar; Bharthiar University, Coimbatore; CSIR- IIIM, Jammu; University of Jammu and SKUAST-Jammu participated in this high end skilling workshop. During the workshop twenty nine lectures and hands on practical sessions were delivered by experts from different institutes including University of Technology, Malaysia; PAU, Ludhiana; University of Mysuru, Mysore; CSIR- IIM; University of Jammu and SKUAST-Jammu. During the workshop, the students visited premier institutes in and around Jammu for exposure to modern analytical techniques in Food Biochemistry. Certificates of participation were distributed to the participants. Statutory officers, Head of the Divisions, faculty members were also present on the occasion. The event was coordinated by Dr. Upma Dutta, Course Coordinator of the workshop. Vote of thanks was presented by Dr. Sanjay Guleria, Prof. & Head, Division of Biochemistry. Proceedings of the program were conducted by Dr. Sachin Gupta, Professor and Course Coordinator of the workshop.

Dr. B. N. Tripathi, Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu addressed the non-teaching staff of the University at the Main campus, Chatha. At the onset, Dr. S.K. Gupta, Registrar of the University welcomed the Vice chancellor and hoped that the University will reach new heights under his patronage and leadership. He highlighted the role of non-teaching staff in the functioning of the university. He assured that all the possible help shall be rendered to the staff under rules to address their genuine demands regarding promotion, transfer policies etc. He appealed the staff to take pledge for working with dedication so that the ranking of the University gets improved and it becomes a brand. He stressed upon the need for increasing revenue by the different constituents of the University and asked the non-teaching staff to work with zeal to achieve the goals. During the interaction meeting, the non teaching staff also raised the issues of adoption of transfer policy, conduct of regular refresher courses and conduct of DPC on regular basis. He informed the house that recruitment process shall soon start at the University. The meeting ended with the vote of thanks by Dr. S.K. Gupta, Registrar of the University. 

Dr. B. N. Tripathi, Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu today urged Agriculture students to become job creators and not Job Seekers, Addressing the Undergraduate and Postgraduate students of the University at the Main campus, Chatha, he enlightened them with the remarkable transformation journey of agriculture in India, highlighting the progress of the nation from a country with insufficient food to a self-sufficient and even exporting agricultural produce. The credit for this achievement, he emphasized, goes to the dedicated efforts of agricultural scientists who have developed numerous crop varieties, technologies and thus significantly increased the production. He underlined that the agricultural development in India serves as a valuable lesson for the world. The work of Indian agricultural scientists has gained recognition globally and their contributions are acknowledged by the entire world. He stressed the importance of self-reliance, referring to the concept of “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India). To address these challenges and ensure food security, Dr. Tripathi emphasised the significance of precision agriculture technology. He was of the opinion that by integrating research and technology; agricultural production can be increased while promoting sustainability. He stressed upon the students to live upto the vision of making the university the best research institute and highlighted the importance of enhancing research and education. Dr. Tripathi assured the students that the university would work tirelessly day and night to achieve excellence. The Vice Chancellor also touched upon the importance of placement cells in the university, encouraging students to actively participate in campus selection processes and not solely rely on job opportunities. He emphasized the need for students to compete in exams such as the NET Agricultural Research Service (ARS) etc and to foster an entrepreneurial mindset. Dr. Tripathi encouraged the students to aspire to be job creators rather than job seekers and emphasized the limitless possibilities available to them. Furthermore, he advised Dean Students’ Welfare (DSW) to organize interactions with renowned professionals from various fields to provide students with opportunities to learn from experts in their respective domains. Dr. Tripathi assured the students of providing adequate facilities to ensure that their research and education thrive without hindrance. 

Dr. B.N Tripathi, Vice-Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu inaugurated the World Zoonoses Day, 2023 as the Chief Guest at Faculty of Veterinary Sciences & A.H, R S Pura in the presence of Brig. J.S. Dharmadheeran, CEO, Brook India as guest of honour, and Dr. M.S. Bhadwal, Dean, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences & Animal Husbandry. In his address, he informed the gathering that World Zoonosis Day is observed on July 6th every year to raise awareness about zoonotic diseases and their impact on human and animal health. He further said that the primary goal of World Zoonosis Day is to educate people about the risks associated with zoonotic diseases and promote measures to prevent their spread. It aims to highlight the importance of collaboration between human and animal health sectors, as well as environmental agencies, in addressing zoonotic threats.Zoonotic diseases can have significant public health implications, causing illness, death, and economic losses. Many of these diseases originate in animals and can be transmitted to humans through various means, including direct contact, consumption of contaminated food or water, or exposure to vectors like mosquitoes and ticks. Brig. (Dr.) J.S. Dharamadheeran, CEO, Brooke India, emphasized on the theme for the celebration of this year’s World Zoonoses Day, “One World, One Health: Prevent Zoonoses, Stop the Spread”. He said that this day plays a vital role in safeguarding public health and fostering a One Health approach, which recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health by promoting awareness and knowledge about zoonotic diseases. Dr. M.A. Malik, Prof. & Head, Division of Veterinary Public Health & Epidemiology, presented thematic talk on the topic ‘Zoonoses: An overview’. Dr. Rajesh Katoch, DSW, SKUAST-J, Dr. J.S. Soodan, Dean, Faculty of Dairy Technology, all HoD’s, Faculty members and students of F.V.Sc& A.H attended the celebration of World Zoonoses Day. Dr. H.K Sharma, Prof. Division of Veterinary Public Health & Epidemiology, conducted the proceeding and extended the vote of thanks