BANDIPORA: A week-long Entrepreneurship and Skill Development Programme (ESDP) on “Entrepreneurial Skill Development and Management of Rural Youth in Scientific  Vermicompost Production” commenced today at KVK Bandipora-1. 

The seven-day programme is being organized by Krishi Vigyan Kendra Bandipora-1 under the Directorate of Extension, SKUAST-Kashmir, in collaboration with the EMDP Division, Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of India.

The training is specifically designed to empower rural youth, Krishi Sakhis, and participants from the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM). The primary goal is to provide these participants with the technical skills and business management knowledge required to establish and run successful vermicomposting units as sustainable micro-enterprises.

During the inaugural session, Dr. Tahir Saleem, Specialist (Vegetable Science) delivered a detailed presentation and led a practical demonstration on the essentials of scientific vermicomposting. He explained that vermicompost is a nutrient-rich organic fertilizer produced by the breakdown of organic waste by earthworms. He demonstrated how this process not only cleans up the environment by recycling farm waste and cow dung but also significantly improves soil health and water retention, leading to better crop quality and reduced chemical costs for farmers.

Dr. Nazir Ahmad Mir, Specialist (Animal Science) spoke about the importance of scientific management in vermicompost units. He explained that by following correct methods such as maintaining proper moisture and temperature participants can produce high-quality organic manure much faster than traditional methods. He encouraged the NRLM members and rural youth to look at vermicomposting as a "Green Business" that has high demand in both local and urban markets.

The seven-day programme will cover  the basic biology of earthworms to the branding, packaging, and marketing of the final product. It was informed that the collaboration with MSME is aimed at building the entrepreneurial capacity of rural communities, helping them move from being job seekers to job creators.

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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