SRINAGAR: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology Kashmir inaugurated an Advanced Entrepreneurship and Skill Development Programme (ESDP) on “Spawn and Ready-to-Fruit Bags of Oyster Mushroom” at its Shalimar campus. 

The week-long program, organised by SKUAST-K’s Division of Plant Pathology and sponsored by the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of India, is designed to transform aspiring scholars and farmers into successful entrepreneurs.

The inaugural ceremony was presided over by Prof Haroon Naik, Director Research and Director Planning & Monitoring; Prof. Rehana Kant, Director Extension, and Prof. Ali Anwar, Head, Division of Plant Pathology.

Prof Haroon Naik underscored the pivotal role SKUAST-K plays in nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs through MSME-sponsored initiatives. He credited the university’s rapid ascent as a premier agricultural institution to the visionary leadership of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nazir A. Ganie, whose focus on skill-based programs has opened new doors for the region's youth.

Prof Rehana Kant termed the training a "gateway to success," urging participants to leverage these skills to create sustainable livelihoods and carve out a niche in the competitive market.  Prof. Ali Anwar highlighted the necessity of adapting to global standards in research and innovation to remain relevant in a fast-evolving agribusiness landscape.

Distinguished guests including Prof MY Ghani and Prof Qazi Nissar elaborated on the specific economic potential of "Ready-to-Fruit" bags, identifying them as a highly accessible livelihood option for women and rural enterprises. The program coordinator, Dr Vaseem Yousuf, provided a technical roadmap of the course, including hands-on training for modern spawn production and climate control systems.

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