BANDIPORA: Under the guidance of the Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Kashmir and the Directorate of Extension, SKUAST-K, Krishi Vigyan Kendra Bandipora-1 today hosted scientists and Farmer Master Trainers (FMTs) during the ongoing Four-Day Training Programme on Natural Farming under the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF). 

The programme has been organised to strengthen the technical knowledge and practical skills of KVK Scientists and Farmer Master Trainers (FMTs) in various aspects of Natural Farming including preparation of natural inputs, soil health management, eco-friendly pest management and sustainable extension strategies. 

Scientists and participants from SKUAST-Kashmir and SKUAST-Jammu visited and inspected various Natural Farming demonstration units established at KVK Bandipora-1.  The field visit focused on practical learning and exposure regarding sustainable and low input farming practices being promoted by the KVK.

 During the visit, participants were taken to different demonstration plots under Natural Farming including the Walnut Demonstration Plot, Lotus Demonstration Plot and Stone Fruit Based Natural Farming Demonstration Plot integrated with Vegetable Crops.  The demonstrations highlighted the importance of integrated farming systems for improving soil health, conserving natural resources and reducing dependency on chemical inputs. 

Dr. Tariq Sultan, Head KVK Bandipora-1, welcomed the visiting scientists, experts and Field Management Teams and highlighted the importance of Natural Farming in achieving sustainable agricultural development. He demonstrated different Natural Farming models established at the KVK and briefed the participants regarding various farmer oriented extension activities being undertaken by the institution. He emphasized the need for promoting chemical free and environmentally sustainable farming practices for improving soil fertility, farm profitability and livelihood security of farmers. 

The programme also included practical demonstrations on preparation and application of the basic components of Natural Farming including Jeevamrut, Beejamrut, Acchadana and Whapasa. Scientists explained the role of these natural formulations in enhancing soil microbial activity, nutrient management and natural crop protection. 

During the technical sessions, Dr. Tahir Saleem, SMS Vegetable Science, deliberated on crop management practices under Natural Farming systems. Dr. Nazir Ahmad Mir, SMS Animal Science, highlighted the importance of indigenous livestock and cow based formulations in Natural Farming.

Likewise, Dr. Bilal Ahmad Zargar, SMS Agri Extension, emphasized the role of extension services, farmer awareness and field demonstrations in scaling up Natural Farming initiatives. Shabnum Mumtaz, SMS Entomology, sensitized participants regarding eco-friendly pest management practices and biological methods for sustainable insect control. 

The visiting scientists appreciated the efforts of KVK Bandipora-1 in promoting Natural Farming through practical demonstrations and farmer oriented extension activities. Participants actively interacted with the experts and expressed keen interest in promoting Natural Farming technologies among farming communities. 

The programme concluded with an interactive session and field visit to various Natural Farming demonstration units established at KVK Bandipora-1 under the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF). 

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). ā€œHis article, ā€˜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.ā€.  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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