JAMMU: The DEERS–EIACP J&K Hub, in collaboration with the Division of Agronomy SKUAST-Jammu, organized an enriching event to mark World GIS Day 2025, bringing together students, faculty and experts to celebrate and explore the transformative potential of Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from nearly 100 attendees, including staff members, researchers, and students from different departments. The event aimed to enhance awareness about GIS applications and promote geospatial literacy among young scholars. The programme commenced with a warm welcome address by Dr. A. P. Singh, Head, Division of Agronomy, who greeted the distinguished guests, speakers, and participants. He highlighted the importance of hosting such technical events to expose students to emerging scientific tools and technologies.
The event was graced by Coordinator EIACP, Dr. Rajan Singh. In his inaugural address, Dr. Singh underscored the critical importance of GIS technology in everyday life. He emphasized how geospatial tools have become indispensable for scientific planning, sustainable development, resource management and strategic decision-making across various sectors. He encouraged students to develop geospatial skills to meet the growing demand for GIS professionals in the modern workforce.
Later, Registrar and Dean Faculty of Agriculture SKUAST Dr Anil Kumar joined and presided over the function. He recalled the years when Remote Sensing technology was in its initial phase and how it has evolved over a period of time. He elaborated on how SKUAST has embedded GIS in its research and curriculum activities.
The resource persons, including Mr. Gurnaam Parsad, Scientific Assistant, DEERS, Dr. Majid Farooq, Jr. Scientist, DEERS and Chandra Mohan Adhikari from ESRI, New Delhi, delivered insightful and interactive lectures. Their sessions covered a broad spectrum of topics, ranging from the fundamentals of GIS to advanced applications of geospatial tools in agriculture, environmental management, disaster preparedness and urban planning. Participants showed great interest and actively engaged with the speakers, making the technical sessions highly productive. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Kirti Bhatt, PO, DEERS-EIACP HUB, J&K.
