Baramulla, Nov 11(KNS): Division of Social & Basic Sciences, Ganderbal, SKUAST-K conducted one day program entitled “Entrepreneurship opportunities in Forestry and allied sectors” at Govt. Boys High School, Hardushiva, Baramulla.
The Program started with Welcome address by Mr Javaid Ahmad, who in his address appreciated the efforts of SKUAST-K to reach far off localities in the valley who are giving awareness to the unemployed youth and students. Team of university was welcomed by one and all especially by the Headmaster of the School.
Program Coordinator, Dr Syed Naseem Geelani, Head , Division of Social & Basic Sciences addressed the participants of the training program. In his speech he gave the overview of the importance of the forests and the opportunities which are available in these forests by way of entrepreneurship. We can give value addition to our Medicinal and aromatic plants. We have lot of opportunities in Nursery technology, Sustainable Logging practices, Eco Tourism, Forest Fire Management, Wildlife Conservation, Forest based products, Carbon credits and Environmental services, Forest Management Software and Technology, Agroforestry and permaculture, Conservation practices etc. We have great potential for Cricket bat Industry, the global market for cricket bats is expected to increase to 4 million per year. The use of superior willow is expected to increase the demand for cricket bats manufactured in the Kashmir valley. J&K has a huge potential to produce high altitude medicinal plants. The demand for medicinal plants is high in India and abroad. Walnut wood carving is one of the most important crafts in Kashmir and has huge potential for the decorative purpose also. We have a great number of plywood industries also which get raw material from forests and adjoining areas.
Hilal Ahmad, from Jammu and Kashmir Bank (JKB), warpora branch gave a detailed account of the Schemes available at JKB for entrepreneurs who can avail these facilities on very low interest rates. Govt is giving subsidies for young entrepreneurs who want to set up their units.
Bashir Ahmad, Headmaster of the School presented vote of thanks and said that these programs create awareness among students and young generation. He thanks coordinator for choosing this venue and stressed upon the organizers to have these programs in future also. Mr Hilal Ahmad anchored the program.
Coordinators acknowledged the efforts and support of Hon’ble Vice Chancellor Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganiae and Director, Planning and Monitoring, Prof. H. R.Naik, Dean Faculty of Forestry, Prof. S. A. Gangoo. Coordinators were also very much thankful to the sponsoring agency, Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) Govt. of India, New Delhi.(KNS).