Tanveer Hussain
Budgam, October 15: Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Budgam, a constituent unit of the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), organised a grand celebration of Women Farmers Day at its main campus in Harran, Budgam. The programme aimed to promote agri-entrepreneurship, empower women and strengthen sustainable rural livelihoods.
The event was attended by Director Extension, SKUAST-K, Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, as the chief guest. KVK scientists, agricultural experts, officials from line departments and a large number of progressive women farmers from different parts of Budgam district participated in the programme.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Head KVK Budgam, Prof. Bilal Ahmad Lone, who briefed the dignitaries about the institution’s achievements and ongoing extension activities aimed at familiarising rural women with modern scientific agricultural practices.
Addressing the gathering, chief guest Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth appreciated the dedication, resilience and significant contributions of women farmers towards agricultural development and strengthening the rural economy.
She emphasised that the active participation of women is essential in modern agriculture and said they should play a greater role not only in traditional farming activities but also in decision-making, agri-entrepreneurship and other income-generating ventures.
Prof. Kanth highlighted SKUAST-K’s commitment to reducing the physical drudgery of women farmers through the introduction of women-friendly modern agricultural tools and climate-resilient technologies.
She urged women farmers to form Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) to improve their economic status and benefit from the facilities and opportunities available under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP).
“Empowering a woman farmer means empowering an entire rural community towards self-reliance and economic security,” she said.
During the programme, expert scientist Prof. Bhinish Shakeel conducted a technical session focusing on secondary agriculture, high-yielding crop varieties, organic farming practices and value-addition techniques. These practices, the participants were informed, can help enhance agricultural productivity and improve farmers’ income.
As part of the event, the chief guest interacted directly with women farmers, listened to the challenges they face in their fields and discussed possible solutions. Agricultural inputs were also distributed among the farmers to improve farming efficiency and productivity.
The programme concluded with a formal vote of thanks, during which KVK Budgam reaffirmed its commitment to taking scientific knowledge and modern agricultural technologies from research institutions to farmers at the grassroots level.
The celebration highlighted the vital role of women farmers in advancing agricultural development, promoting rural entrepreneurship and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities across Budgam district.
