SRINAGAR: Division of Plant Biotechnology, Faculty of Horticulture, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), inaugurated a two-day International Workshop on ‘OMICS for Crop Improvement’ today at the university's Shalimar campus.  The event is being held on 14th and 15th July, 2025, with participation from scientists, researchers, and students from different institutes.

Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Vice Chancellor of SKUAST-K, delivered the ‘Words of Wisdom’ as the chief guest of the event. He appreciated the department’s efforts in organizing this international workshop and highlighted the transformative role of integrative OMICS in revolutionizing plant breeding, stress tolerance, and genetic resource utilization to mitigate aberrant climatic changes for sustainable agriculture in J&K.

Prof. Nazir A. Ganai also mentioned about ‘Evergreen revolution’ initiatives taken by SKUAST-Kashmir under HADP project for safeguarding fragile climatic conditions of Kashmir. Earlier, the program commenced with a welcome address by Prof. Amjad M. Husaini, Head, Division of Plant Biotechnology, who welcomed the dignitaries, invited speakers and all participants.

The session was also graced by Prof. Haroon Rashid Naik, Director of Research; Prof. Mohammad Altaf Bhat, Director of Education; Prof. Azmat Alam Khan, Registrar, SKUAST-K; Prof. Neelofar Banday, Dean, Faculty of Horticulture. A formal Vote of Thanks was presented by Dr. Sajad Majeed Zargar, Workshop Coordinator, Division of Plant Biotechnology, who expressed gratitude to the university leadership, expert speakers, participants, and the organizing team for their support and contribution in making the event successful.

It was followed by an expert talk on Genome Harvest by Prof. Rupesh Deshmukh, Head, Department of Biotechnology, Central University of Haryana. Over the course of the two days, participants will receive exposure to both hands-on training and expert lectures on cutting-edge topics Genome Harvest, Multivariate Proteome Analysis, Genome Editing for Crop Improvement, QTL Mapping, Genome Informatics and Experimental Design etc.

The workshop is expected to foster interdisciplinary collaborations and enhance technical skills relevant to modern plant science and agricultural biotechnology focusing on the role of OMICS technologies in sustainable agriculture and precision crop breeding. Researchers, academicians, and students from various institutions are participating in the program. This program is sponsored by Neuberg Diagnostics, Ahmadabad.

 

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
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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