BUDGAM: Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Budgam, under the leadership of Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-K, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai and in collaboration with the TSP-ICAR project ‘Promotion of Natural Farming in Tribal farmers of Kashmir’ successfully conducted a comprehensive training and input distribution programme to tribal farmers belonging to villages Tral and Sangerwani of district Pulwama.

The initiative was designed to empower tribal farmers by equipping them with high-quality inputs to boost productivity and ensure sustainable livelihoods through Natural Farming practises. The programme was presided over by Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, Director Extension, SKUAST-K, who was the chief guest on the occasion besides Prof. Javeed Ahmad Mugloo, Professor & Head, ETC & KVK Pulwama and Scientists from both KVK’s were also present.

In her address, Prof. Raihana highlighted SKUAST-Kashmir’s continued efforts towards the upliftment of tribal farming communities. She emphasized the critical role of Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) in promoting climate-resilient agriculture and improving livelihood security. She added that KVK’s are playing a pivotal role in transforming the lives of tribal farmers by introducing innovative, sustainable practices and providing timely access to quality agricultural inputs. She stressed on the importance of adopting scientific practices for achieving sustainable agricultural growth and improving rural livelihoods.

Prof. Javeed Ahmad Mugloo, Head, ETC & KVK Pulwama in his address highlighted the objectives of the Tribal Sub Plan, emphasizing the commitment of ICAR and SKUAST-Kashmir towards improving the livelihoods of tribal farming communities through location-specific technologies, capacity building and input support. He urged farmers to adopt scientific farming practices and make the best use of the inputs provided. He also outlined the Kendra’s mission to advance sustainable farming and enhance access to technology for marginalized communities.

During training sessions Dr. Shazia Ramzan (PI of project) and Dr. Shabeer Ahmad Ganie (Co-PI of project), KVK Budgam covered various topics like need and importance of Natural Farming, pillars and practises of Natural Farming and strategies for climate-smart agriculture. A major highlight of the event was the distribution of inputs like drums, buckets, shoes, gloves etc., to participating tribal farmers for practising Natural Farming on their fields.

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