SHOPIAN: Awareness cum seed distribution programme for tribal farmers of District Shopian under project ‘Outreach of Technology & Distribution of Farming Tools, for economic upliftment of ST & Low-Income Farmers' sponsored by TSP-ICAR in collaboration with Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Shopian was organized today here at Shopian.

The initiative aimed to enhance agricultural productivity and improve livelihoods through the transfer of technology and distribution of quality seeds and tools.

The event was graced by the Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA), Shabir Ahmad Kullay, as the chief guest, and the Director Extension, SKUAST-K, as the guest of honour.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from tribal farmers across the district.

In his address, Shabir Ahmad Kullay praised the efforts of SKUAST-K and KVK Shopian in reaching out to tribal farming communities and reaffirmed the government's commitment to strengthening rural livelihoods through targeted technological interventions.

Prof. Rehana Habib Kant, Director Extension, SKUAST-K, highlighted the importance of such outreach programmes in transferring advanced agricultural knowledge and technologies at the grassroots level, and emphasized the university's role in capacity building and rural development.

Earlier, the programme commenced with an address by Dr. Zaffar Afroz Badri, Programme Coordinator KVK Shopian, who outlined the key objectives of the programme.

Prof. Javeed Ahmad Mugloo, Principal Investigator of the project, stressed the importance of empowering tribal farmers through scientific interventions. He encouraged the farmers to make effective use of the seeds and tools provided to them.

The programme culminated with the distribution of high-quality potato seeds to tribal farmers, aimed at supporting them for the upcoming sowing season.