Srinagar, Sep 10(KNS): In a significant effort to enhance the livelihoods of tribal communities in the Gurez Valley, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology-Kashmir (SKUASTK-Kashmir) recently conducted a one-day Training Cum Awareness Programme.
The program focused on the cultivation of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable agriculture and rural development. Organized by the Division of Forest Products and Utilization Faculty of Forestry, SKUASTK-Kashmir, in collaboration with MARES Gurez, this event was part of the All India Coordinated Research Project on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants and Betalvine (AICRP-MAP &B). The chief guest for the event, Dr. Mudasir Ahmad, Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Gurez, graced the occasion. Dr. Tahir Mushtaq, Assistant Professor of the Division of Forest Products and Utilization, extended a warm welcome to the chief guest and local farmers who attended the event. During the program, Dr. Parvaiz Ahmad Sofi, Professor and Head of the Division of Forest Products and Utilization, provided essential insights into the initiative.
He underscored the significance of Medicinal and Aromatic plants in improving the livelihoods of tribal communities. Dr. Sofi also emphasized the pivotal role played by the Division of Forest Products and Utilization and AICRP-MAP &B in promoting the cultivation of Medicinal and Aromatic plants. The utility of the programme was presented by Dr. Bilal Ahmad, Head of MARES Gurez.
The practical aspects of product development from Medicinal and Aromatic Plants were elucidated by Dr. P.A Sofi, Dr. A.R. Malik and Dr. Tahir Mushtaq. They also imparted valuable knowledge to local farmers, highlighting the vast potential of these plants for product development. Later on, Head Division of FPU, Dr Parvaiz Ahmad Sofi, along with scientists from FPU Division and their team in MARES Gurez conducted plantation drive in the area. The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. A. R. Malik, Assistant Professor of the Division of Forest Products and Utilization.
More than 20 local tribal members from the Gurez Valley actively participated in this enlightening and empowering program. The Training Cum Awareness Programme has set a positive trajectory for the cultivation of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants in Gurez, promising improved livelihoods and sustainable development for the tribal communities in this picturesque valley.(KNS).