SRINAGAR: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) today inaugurated a specialised 37-day skill training program focused on the “Repair and Overhauling of Stationery Engines and Power Tillers.”

The comprehensive training session was inaugurated by Prof Rehaina Habib Kanth, Director Extension at SKUAST-K, at the College of Agricultural Engineering & Technology. The event was attended by high-ranking university officials, including the Registrar, Associate Dean, heads of various divisions, and senior faculty members.

Sponsored by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India, under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) project, the program is being organized by the Farm Machinery Testing Centre, Division of Farm Machinery and Power Engineering, SKUAST-K. The initiative has successfully drawn 30 rural youths from across the Kashmir valley, all eager to acquire technical expertise in agricultural mechanization.

Addressing the trainees as the Chief Guest, Prof Rehaina Habib Kanth emphasized that the program is more than just a technical course, it is a gateway to financial independence. 

Prof Azmat Alam, Registrar of SKUAST-K, further highlighted how a skilled workforce serves as the backbone of a successful entrepreneurial ecosystem. He spoke extensively on the pressing need for technical manpower in the remote areas of the valley, where the ability to repair engines and agricultural machinery can provide essential services to farmers while securing a stable livelihood for the service providers. He also noted that the program aligns with the NEP-2020 curriculum, which prioritizes vocational skilling alongside traditional education.

The Training Coordinator and Head of the Division (FMPE), Prof Jagvir Dixit, provided an overview of the 250-hour curriculum. He explained the critical importance of scheduled maintenance and overhauling in extending the life of farm equipment. Adding to this, Prof Rohitashw Kumar, Associate Dean of COAE&T,  stressed that these sessions benefit both the individual participants and the overall productivity of the regional agricultural sector.

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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