Peerzada Sayeed
Kupwara, October 01 (JKNS): Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Kupwara organised a comprehensive training and awareness programme on natural farming in the Magam area of north Kashmir’s Kupwara district on Wednesday, with 53 farmers and 36 students from Wadoora, SKUAST-K, participating in the programme.
The initiative was aimed at creating awareness among farmers and students about low-cost, sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices, while encouraging the adoption of agricultural methods that can reduce dependence on expensive external inputs and improve the long-term sustainability of farming.
As part of the programme, the participating farmers undertook an exposure visit to the farm of progressive farmer Sobia, who has received training and support from KVK Kupwara. During the visit, participants observed the practical application of natural farming techniques and interacted with the progressive farmer to understand how such practices can be implemented under local farming conditions.
Dr. G.M. Bhat, Head of KVK Kupwara, delivered a detailed lecture on the concept, principles and significance of natural farming. He explained that natural farming should not be viewed merely as an alternative crop-production technique, but as a holistic approach focused on improving soil health, conserving natural resources, reducing dependence on external inputs and making agricultural systems more sustainable.
Dr. Bhat highlighted four major pillars of natural farming—“Save Soil, Save Water, Save Environment and Save Human Life.” He stressed the importance of maintaining soil structure, enhancing biological activity in the soil, conserving water resources, reducing chemical pollution, promoting biodiversity and ensuring the production of safe and nutritious food.
Practical Demonstrations on Natural Farming Inputs
A major component of the programme was the practical training session, during which farmers were provided hands-on demonstrations on the preparation and application of Beej Amrit, Jeev Amrit and Ghan Jeev Amrit.
The participants were explained the ingredients, preparation procedures and appropriate application techniques of these natural farming formulations. KVK experts also explained their role in improving soil biological activity and supporting healthy crop growth.
Dr. Bhat encouraged farmers to make greater use of locally available farm resources and gradually reduce their dependence on costly external agricultural inputs. He said that natural farming, when adopted according to local agro-climatic conditions, can contribute towards reducing cultivation costs, improving resource-use efficiency and strengthening farm-based livelihoods.
He further emphasised that agriculture should not remain merely a means of subsistence but should evolve into a sustainable source of livelihood and income for rural households.
The KVK Head particularly encouraged young people and women to explore diversified agricultural activities alongside natural farming, including horticulture, livestock rearing, vegetable cultivation, mushroom production and other locally suitable enterprises.
Scientists Interact with Farming Community
Other scientific staff from KVK Kupwara, including Dr. Shahid Hakim, Dr. Ishtiyaq Ahmad, Dr. Firdous Ahmad Raina and Dr. Faisal Nabi, also interacted with the farmers and students.
The scientists shared technical information on various aspects of sustainable agriculture and responded to queries raised by participants regarding farming practices, crop production and the adoption of environmentally responsible agricultural technologies.
Call for Ban on Polythene, Protection of Agricultural Land
Speaking on environmental conservation, Dr. G.M. Bhat called for a complete ban on the use of polythene in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in the Kashmir Valley. He stressed that protecting the environment should remain an important component of sustainable agricultural development.
He also urged the District Administration Kupwara and Sub-Divisional Administration Handwara to take effective measures to prevent construction activities on agricultural and horticultural land.
Dr. Bhat underlined that safeguarding agricultural and horticultural land is essential for protecting the interests of future generations and preserving the region’s agricultural potential.
Farmer-to-Farmer Learning Emphasised
The participating farmers took an active part in the practical demonstrations and engaged with KVK scientists on different aspects of natural farming. The visit to the progressive farmer’s field provided them with an opportunity to see the technologies in practice rather than relying solely on theoretical instruction.
The programme concluded with emphasis on farmer-to-farmer learning, reduction in cultivation costs, conservation of natural resources and promotion of sustainable agriculture in Kupwara district.
KVK Kupwara reiterated its commitment to providing scientific, practical and field-oriented training to the farming community and promoting agricultural systems that are economically viable, environmentally responsible and capable of generating sustainable livelihoods for rural households.(JKNS)
