The Division of Social and Basic Sciences, Faculty of Forestry, SKUAST-K, Benhama-Watlar, in collaboration with Govt. Polytechnic College (GPC), Bandipora, launched a one-week Entrepreneurship Skill Development Training Program today.

Sponsored by the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME), the program aims to address the conservation needs of eco-fragile areas such as wetlands, forests, alpine zones, and other sensitive ecosystems increasingly under threat from anthropogenic activities.

In his keynote address, Prof. Naseem Geelani, Head of the Division of Social and Basic Sciences (SBS) and Coordinator of the program, highlighted the significance of these eco-fragile areas. "These regions are highly sensitive to environmental changes and have a low regenerative capacity, making them extremely vulnerable," he said. He further emphasized that these ecosystems contribute not only to environmental stability but also to cultural and economic well-being. Coordinator thanked the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor , Director Planning and Dean, FoF for their support and MSME authorities for their sponsorship . 

The Principal of GPC, Bandipora, Javaid Iqbal in his speech, stressed the importance of such programs in shaping students' careers, particularly in the tourism sector.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel"We must pledge to conserve these areas and protect our biodiversity. We are immensely grateful to the organizers for selecting our college for this important initiative," he remarked.

Dr. Showket Ahmad Dar, Co-Coordinator of the program, elaborated on the need for the protection of these vulnerable areas. "The plants and herbs found in these ecosystems are highly susceptible to diseases and require careful management. By safeguarding these species, we can ensure the protection of the entire ecosystem," he stated.

Ashfaq from GPC, Bandipora anchored the event, while Rukhsana Bashir, Head of the Department of Tourism, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing her appreciation to the organizers and participants.

This initiative is seen as a crucial step toward fostering entrepreneurship in ecosystem services and raising awareness of the importance of preserving eco-fragile areas for future generations.