BUDGAM, OCTOBER 21: Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Budgam, a constituent unit of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), celebrated Women Farmers’ Day at its main campus in Harran, Budgam, on Wednesday. The programme aimed to recognise the significant contributions of women to the agricultural sector and equip them with scientific knowledge and modern technologies to promote sustainable rural livelihoods and economic self-reliance.
The event was attended by Director Extension, SKUAST-K, Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, as the Chief Guest. Scientists from KVK Budgam, subject matter specialists, officials from various line departments and a large number of progressive women farmers from across the district participated in the programme.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Head KVK Budgam, Prof. Bilal Ahmad Lone, who briefed the gathering about the institution’s achievements and ongoing extension activities aimed at supporting rural women, strengthening agricultural practices and promoting modern farming techniques.
Addressing the participants, Chief Guest Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth appreciated the hard work, dedication and resilience of women farmers in strengthening the rural economy. She highlighted the growing role of women in modern agriculture and emphasised that their contributions should extend beyond traditional farm labour to active participation in decision-making, entrepreneurship and agricultural development.
She also highlighted the university’s commitment to reducing the physical drudgery associated with farming by promoting women-friendly agricultural tools, modern technologies and climate-resilient farming practices.
Prof. Kanth encouraged women farmers to form Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) to strengthen collective efforts, explore new agri-entrepreneurship opportunities and avail benefits under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP).
“Empowering a woman farmer means empowering an entire rural community towards self-reliance and economic security,” she said, underlining the importance of women’s economic empowerment in achieving sustainable rural development.
A technical session was also conducted by expert scientist Prof. Bhinish Shakeel, who shared valuable insights into secondary agriculture, high-yielding crop varieties, organic farming practices and value-addition techniques. The session focused on improving agricultural productivity, diversifying farming activities and creating additional income opportunities through scientific and sustainable farming methods.
As part of the programme, the Chief Guest interacted directly with the participating women farmers, listened to the challenges they face in their fields and discussed possible solutions. Agricultural inputs were also distributed among the participants to help improve farming efficiency and productivity.
The programme concluded with a formal vote of thanks. KVK Budgam reiterated its commitment to taking scientific innovations and modern agricultural technologies from research institutions to the grassroots level, with a special focus on empowering women farmers, promoting agri-entrepreneurship and strengthening sustainable agriculture across the district.