BUDGAM: SKUAST-K, KVK Budgam Tuesday successfully concluded its six weeks MSME entrepreneurship skill development programme titled ‘From spores to harvest: a comprehensive mushroom training’ sponsored by Ministry of Micro, Small &Medium Enterprises, Govt of India. The programme that commenced on from 12 December, 2024 culminated today on 21 January, 2025 was aimed at empowering farmers and farm women with vital skills in mushroom cultivation.

The program equipped participants with knowledge and practical experience to enhance their farming practices and diversify their income sources. This hands-on training brought together over 25 participants of Galwanpora and adjoining villages of district Budgam.

During the programme participants were engaged in a series of interactive sessions covering crucial aspects of mushroom farming, including selecting appropriate mushroom varieties, techniques for spawn preparation and substrate preparation, sustainable cultivation practices, pest and disease management, and harvesting and post-harvest handling.

The training included practical demonstrations allowing participants to get first-hand experience in mushroom farming operations. Participants expressed enthusiasm and commitment in applying their newly acquired skills, with many indicating plans to establish their own mushroom farms or integrate mushroom cultivation into their existing farming practices.

The training also facilitated an interaction with mushroom entrepreneurs like Gowhar Ali, (National award winner in mushroom production) and Syed Arshad in order to share their experience and encouragement to-the participant to take the lead for mushroom farming to enhance food security and generate additional income for families. An exposure visit to Mushroom Research & Training Centre Shalimar was undertaken during the programme.

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

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇

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