One Week Training Programme on “Empowering Agriculture Students with Digital Tools and Resources” begins at SKUAST-Jammu

World Soil Day celebrated at SKUAST-J Conserve Soil for sustainable agriculture

Jammu,05th December, 2023
SKUAST Jammu inks MoU with University of Western Australia, Perth

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.
Prof. B. N. Tripathi, Vice -Chancellor, SKUAST -Jammu leads delegation to the University of Melbourne

Melbourne,
Australia, November, 22
High Level SKUAST- Jammu delegation visits Western Sydney University, Australia

SKUAST-J organizes ZREAC meeting

University Vice Chancellors Badminton Tournament organised at SKUAST-Jammu

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 17th of October to 19th 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.
SKUAST-J signed MOU with Narsingh Seva Kendra

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.
SKUAST Jammu students selected for Internship at Western Sydney University, Australia under NAHEP

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.
SKUAST- Jammu organized Seminar on Critical Stress Management

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.
G20 University Connect Programme at SKUAST-Jammu

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 2/3rd
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.
Quiz Competition and Ideathon Under G20 University Connect at SKUAST JAMMU

VICE CHANCELLOR, SKUAST-J KICK STARTS PLANTATION DRIVE AT CHATHA CAMPUS

Vanmahotsava, the festival of tree
planting was celebrated by the Division of Silviculture & Agroforestry, Faculty
of Horticulture & Forestry, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural
Sciences and Technology of Jammu (SKUAST-Jammu) in collaboration with Central
Reserve Police Force-160 BN, and NAHEP-IDP, SKUAST-Jammu at Main Campus, Chatha
on 26th of July, 2023. The plantation drive was initiated by Dr. B. N.
Tripathi, Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Jammu, the Chief Guest of the occasion, by
planting a Rudraksh sapling. Sh. Rakesh
Sethi, DIGP Range Jammu, Central Reserve Police Force was the Guest of Honour
on the occasion, accompanied by Sh. Hari om Khare, Commandant CRPF 160 BN. The
chief guest while addressing the officers, faculty members, students and CRPF
personals stressed that trees throughout our existence have helped in sustaining
life on earth. Highlighting the importance of tree plantation programmes, he
emphasized that Vanmahotasav creates awareness about the importance of trees in
our society and portrays the need for planting and tending of trees, as they are
one of the best ways to prevent global warming and reduce pollution.Sh. Rakesh
Sethi, DIGP Range Jammu, CRPF, the guest of honour, informed the gathering that
this plantation is a part of Nationwide Tree Plantation drive and highlighted
the importance of trees in the Indian culture. Sh. Hari om Khare, Commandant
CRPF 160 BN was also present on the occasion. All the dignitaries, statutory
officers of the University, Officers of the Central Reserve Police Force,
Faculty members, Non-teaching staff, CRPF personals and students took part in tree
plantation. The event was coordinated by Dr Sandeep Sehgal, Professor and Head,
Division of Silviculture and Agroforestry, SKUAST-Jammu and Nodal Officer,
ESSC, NAHEP-IDP.
High End Skilling Workshop on Modern Analytical Techniques in Food Biochemistry Concludes at SKUAST-Jammu

Ten
days High End Skilling Workshop on Modern Analytical Techniques in Food
Biochemistry sponsored under Vigyan Accelerate Karyashala Scheme of DST-SERB organized
from 4th to 13th 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.
Vice Chancellor SKUAST-Jammu interacts with Vet Faculty & Students

Dr. B. N. Tripathi, Vice Chancellor SKUAST-Jammu Addresses Faculty Members

Non-teaching staff is an important pillar of the University: Vice Chancellor SKUAST-Jammu

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.
SKUAST-J encourages students to become job creators

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.
Faculty of Veterinary Sciences & A.H, SKUAST-J, celebrates World Zoonoses Day 2023

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