SRINAGAR: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) has commenced a seven-day Training Programme on “Fruit Tree Management” from 5th to 09th February 2026 at Directorate of Extension, Shalimar.

The programme is being organized by the Directorate of Research, SKUAST-Kashmir, in collaboration with the Directorate of Extension, SKUAST-K, under the IFAD-sponsored Jammu & Kashmir Competitiveness Improvement of Agriculture and Allied Sectors Project (JKCIP).

The programme was inaugurated today by Chief Guest Prof Raihana Habib Kanth, Director Extension & Dean Faculty of Horticulture, SKUAST-K in presence of Prof Ashiq H Pandith Head Division of Fruit Science & Coordinator JKCIP SKUAST-K and Dr Mohammad Iqbal Bhat, Coordinator Upscaling collectivization JKCIP SKUAST-K , senior faculty.

The training programme is being designed to strengthen scientific orchard management practices among stakeholders, with a special focus on capacity building of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) under the Upscaling Collectivisation component of JKCIP. The initiative aligns with IFAD’s strategic priorities of enhancing rural livelihoods, promoting climate resilience, gender equity, youth inclusion, and sustainable agricultural development in Jammu & Kashmir.

The training features an intensive schedule of expert lectures, field demonstrations, hands-on training sessions, and exposure visits. Renowned scientists and subject matter specialists from SKUAST-K, ICAR-CITH Srinagar, Punjab Agricultural University Ludhiana, NRC Grapes Pune, and other premier institutions would delivering lectures on orchard planning, scientific training and pruning, irrigation and fertigation management, flowering and fruiting regulation, pollination management, rejuvenation of old orchards, canopy architecture, and climate-smart fruit production systems.

A key highlight of the programme is the exposure visit to ICAR-Central Institute of Temperate Horticulture (CITH), Srinagar, where participants are being trained on advanced concepts such as rootstock–scion interactions, precision pruning, high-density orchard systems, and long-term canopy sustainability.

In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here