JAMMU, Jul 29: The Department of Horticulture, Jammu, on Wednesday organised a one-day training programme on Fruit Plant Orchard and Nursery Development at the Advanced Centre for Horticulture Research (ACHR), Udheywalla, to enhance the technical knowledge and practical skills of trainees from the Mega Fruit Plant Nursery, Chakroi.
The programme was chaired by Chief Horticulture Officer, Jammu, Rakesh Kotwal, who underscored the significance of quality planting material, scientific nursery management, and modern orchard development in boosting fruit production and enhancing farmers’ livelihoods.
Addressing the participants, Kotwal encouraged trainees to embrace innovative technologies and scientific horticultural practices to ensure sustainable growth in the horticulture sector.
“Quality planting material and scientific nursery management are the foundation of a productive horticulture sector. By adopting modern orchard management techniques and improved cultivation practices, we can significantly enhance fruit production, strengthen nursery development, and improve farmers’ incomes,” he said.
The training programme was attended by District Training Officer, Chakroi, Virinder Kumar, District Level Subject Matter Specialists Vishal Magotra and Rakesh Kumar Bhagat, along with officers and staff of the Horticulture Department.
Technical sessions were conducted by experts from SKUAST-J, including Dr. Deepji Bhat (Fruit Science), Dr. Reena (Entomology), Dr. Vikas Abrol, and Dr. Piyush (Soil Science). The experts delivered detailed lectures on scientific orchard establishment, nursery raising techniques, elite planting material selection, propagation methods, integrated nutrient management, soil health management, pest and disease control, and the adoption of advanced horticultural technologies.
The participants also received practical demonstrations on nursery operations, fruit plant propagation, orchard layout, and modern orchard management practices. Interactive sessions allowed trainees to engage directly with the experts and clarify technical queries related to horticultural practices.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, during which the trainees expressed gratitude to the Directorate of Horticulture, Jammu, and SKUAST-J for organising the hands-on training programme. They pledged to implement the knowledge gained to promote scientific nursery development and strengthen sustainable horticulture practices across the region.