Budgam, August 28: Under the visionary leadership of SKUAST-Kashmir Vice Chancellor Prof. Nazir A. Ganai, SKUAST-Kashmir, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Budgam, in collaboration with the Centre for Study of Science, Technology and Policy (CSTEP), organised a Capacity Building and Awareness Workshop on Agri-Photovoltaic (Agri-PV) Systems for farmers of Budgam district.
The workshop highlighted the immense potential of Agri-PV systems in promoting efficient land use, generating renewable energy, enhancing climate resilience in agriculture, improving water-use efficiency, increasing farmers’ income, and ensuring sustainable agricultural productivity.
Addressing the gathering, Director Extension, SKUAST-Kashmir, Prof. Rafiq Hina Kanth, described Agri-PV as a transformative step towards sustainable agriculture and clean energy in Budgam. He noted that the technology is well suited for a wide range of farming activities, including vegetable cultivation, cereal crops, oilseeds, fodder production, dairy farming, sheep and goat rearing, and poultry. He also stressed the importance of promoting region-specific Agri-PV models tailored to local farming needs.
Head, KVK Budgam, Prof. (Dr.) Bilal A. Lone, delivered a detailed presentation on the district’s agro-climatic conditions, cropping systems, and allied agricultural activities. He highlighted the vast potential for integrating Agri-PV systems with Budgam’s diverse cropping patterns, horticulture, livestock resources, and sustainable farming practices.
Senior Analyst, CSTEP, Sheikh Madiha Syed, spoke about the effective implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM) to promote climate-resilient and energy-secure farming systems. She also interacted with progressive farmers and members of Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) to understand their needs and explore practical solutions through climate-smart and sustainable agricultural technologies.
More than 70 progressive farmers associated with various Farmer Producer Organisations participated in the workshop and engaged in detailed discussions with experts from KVK Budgam and CSTEP. The participants reaffirmed their commitment to expanding the adoption of Agri-Photovoltaic systems across Budgam through the promotion of modern, environmentally friendly, and sustainable agricultural technologies.
