SKUAST Leads Kashmir’s Farming Shift with Tech and Better Seeds

Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir is working to change how farming grows and develops in the valley. This shift was visible during the recent Krishi Mela held from 14 to 16 February at the Shalimar campus. The fair gave farmers a direct look at new tools, better seeds, and improved animal breeds that can raise both output and income. From machines that use artificial intelligence to drones that map fields through GPS, the event showed how farming is slowly moving toward a more modern path in Jammu and Kashmir.

Modern Tools Reach Valley Farms

Vice Chancellor Professor Nazir Ahmed said the university continues to develop solutions that meet the real needs of farmers. He stressed that the region must improve both the quality and yield of its produce to stay strong in global markets. Better crops and livestock can help rural families earn more and build stability in their lives. He also pointed out that the future of farming in the valley depends on a mix of technology-based practices and organic methods. This balance can protect the soil and water while still helping farmers grow more.

At the fair, several stalls displayed new methods and tools that farmers can adopt in their daily work. These included hybrid seeds, improved livestock breeds, AI-based drip irrigation systems, and GPS-guided drones that help monitor crop health. Models of complete farm systems were also shown to explain how different tools can work together. Farmers could see new varieties of maize and paddy along with improved mushroom cultivation methods. The floriculture department also showcased chrysanthemum varieties that can bloom across different seasons, opening new income options for growers.

New Methods on Display

The university has also started reaching farmers beyond campus. Officials said teams now visit villages to explain new techniques and guide farmers on how to use them. These outreach camps help farmers understand how improved seeds and breeds can reduce effort and increase profit. The goal is simple. Use fewer inputs and less labor while still producing better results. This approach can make farming more sustainable and more rewarding for small and marginal farmers.

Innovation plays a key role in this effort. Many government programs support the spread of modern tools and practices to improve rural incomes. By sharing new knowledge directly with farmers, the university aims to build confidence in scientific methods. Farmers learn how to manage soil, water, and crops in ways that protect the environment while raising productivity.

Through events like the Krishi Mela and regular village outreach, the university is helping farmers prepare for future challenges. Climate change, market competition, and rising costs demand smarter farming methods. By combining local knowledge with new technology, farmers in Kashmir can improve their harvests and strengthen the rural economy.