KISHTWAR, Jul 13: Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Kishtwar, under the aegis of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu (SKUAST-Jammu), organized a one-day in-service training programme on “Natural and Organic Farming Systems for Promoting Sustainable Agriculture” for the field functionaries of the Department of Agriculture, Kishtwar.
The programme was held at the Conference Hall of the Chief Agriculture Office Complex, Kishtwar. The training programme was organized under the leadership of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. B. N. Tripathi, and the able guidance of the Director Extension, Prof. Amrish Vaid, SKUAST-J.
The programme aimed to enhance the technical knowledge and practical skills of field functionaries on various aspects of natural farming, enabling them to effectively disseminate these eco-friendly and sustainable farming practices among the farming community.
The programme was inaugurated by Manzoor Ahmed District Agriculture Officer Kishtwar, who emphasized that natural farming is the need of the hour in view of the increasing concerns over soil degradation, environmental pollution, and rising cultivation costs.
He stated that natural farming not only improves soil health and biodiversity but also ensures safe and nutritious food for consumers while reducing farmers’ dependence on external agricultural inputs. He urged the participants to play an active role in motivating farmers to adopt sustainable farming practices for improving farm productivity and environmental conservation.
Dr. Berjesh Ajrawat, Chief Scientist and Head, KVK Kishtwar, welcomed the participants and highlighted the significance, advantages, and future prospects of natural farming in the context of sustainable agriculture.
He elaborated on the philosophy and scientific principles of natural farming and provided detailed information on the preparation and application of important indigenous formulations such as Jeevamrit, Beejamrit, Neemastra, Agniastra, and Brahmastra for improving soil fertility, enhancing crop health, and managing insect pests and diseases through natural means.
He also explained the importance of seed treatment using Beejamrit for improving seed vigour and protecting crops during the initial stages of growth.
Dr. Ajrawat emphasized that natural farming is based on the principles of biodiversity conservation, soil regeneration, water conservation, and the efficient utilization of locally available resources, making farming environmentally sustainable and economically profitable.
During the technical session, Dr. Amitesh Sharma, Scientist (Plant Breeding and Genetics), KVK Kishtwar, explained the four pillars of natural farming. He discussed the importance of Acchadana (mulching), Waaphasa (soil moisture and aeration management), and the use of various biological formulations for effective crop nutrition and pest management.
He further stated that natural farming is an agroecology-based production system that integrates crops, livestock, trees, and functional biodiversity to strengthen ecosystem resilience and ensure sustainable agricultural production. who highlighted the importance of utilizing farm residues and locally available organic resources for maintaining soil fertility.
He emphasized the use of indigenous seed varieties, bio-inoculants, and on-farm biological inputs as key components of natural farming.
He also encouraged the participants to educate farmers about the long-term environmental and economic benefits of adopting natural farming practices. The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from the field functionaries of the Department of Agriculture.
The participants actively interacted with the resource persons and appreciated the discussion and technical sessions on the preparation and use of natural farming inputs.
They expressed their commitment to promoting natural and organic farming technologies among farmers for enhancing sustainability, reducing production costs, and improving the overall health of the agricultural ecosystem.
The programme was also attended by Dheeraj Singh, Susheel Sharma and Kuldeep Krishan Kaul.
The programme concluded with an interactive discussion and a vote of thanks, wherein the participants appreciated the efforts of KVK Kishtwar in organizing such capacity-building programmes for strengthening sustainable agriculture in the district.