Srinagar Jan 13 (KNS): Division of Social and Basic Sciences, Faculty of Forestry, Benhama-Watlar, SKUAST-K, inaugurated a weeklong training program titled “Enhancement of Livelihood Options by Way of High-Yielding Fodders/Scientific Technology Interventions in Areas Around Forests” at the National Council for Promotion of Urdu Language (NCPUL) Center, Lar Ganderbal.
The event was graced by Prof. (Dr.) Syed NaseemGeelani, Head of the Division of Social and Basic Sciences, as the Chief Guest. In his inaugural address, Prof.Geelani highlighted the critical gap in fodder availability, stating that the current annual demand in the region is 8.56 million metric tons (MMT), whereas availability stands at only 5.03 MMT, leaving a significant deficit of 41%. He expressed concern over the impact of this shortage on livestock productivity, noting that limited access to quality fodder adversely affects milk and meat production, further contributing to malnutrition among livestock. He also underscored the dependence of over 70% of rural households on forests for grazing and fodder.
Dr.Showket A. Dar, Assistant Professor and Program Coordinator, emphasized the advantages of high-yielding fodder varieties. He explained how such varieties offer higher biomass production and nutrient-rich fodder, which in turn improves milk yield and livestock health.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelHe also advocated for integrating grasses with legumes like Lucerne to ensure year-round fodder availability. Dr. Dar highlighted SKUAST-K’s efforts in promoting fodder crops like oats and berseem in the Kashmir valley, which hold great potential for improving livestock productivity.
The program witnessed enthusiastic participation from progressive farmers who interacted with the scientists and expressed their appreciation for the initiative, acknowledging the institution's efforts in bringing scientific knowledge directly to their doorstep.
Delivering the vote of thanks, Mrs.Masarat, a faculty member, expressed gratitude to the university authorities for their support in organizing the event at the chosen venue. She also thanked the Ministry of MSME for sponsoring the training program. Prof.Geelani extended his heartfelt appreciation to the Vice Chancellor, Director of Planning, and Dean of the Faculty of Forestry for their encouragement and support in making this program a reality.
This training program serves as a vital step toward bridging the fodder deficit and enhancing the livelihoods of communities dependent on livestock and forests, aligning with the broader mission of sustainable agricultural and rural development.(KNS)