The Faculty of Forestry,

Описание: The Faculty of Forestry, Benhama–Ganderbal, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), today kick-started a seven-day training programme on “Capacity Building of Tribal Women on Soil Health Management & Agroforestry Practices.”



The programme is being organized by the Division of Silviculture & Agroforestry in collaboration with J&K Soil and Land Resource Information System for Planning and Soil Health (JKSLRISP) under the Holistic Agricultural Development Programme (HADP – Project-19).
Welcoming the participants, Prof. Vaishnu Dutt, Head, SAF, highlighted that the theme is timely and crucial for sustainable agriculture, environmental conservation, and rural livelihoods. He emphasized that tribal women form the backbone of farming systems, and strengthening their capacities is essential for empowering families, communities, and future generations.
Dr Meghna Rashid, Assistant Professor, SAF, briefed the participants about the programme and stressed that skill development in nursery raising, species selection, tree management, and value addition can make agroforestry a powerful tool for livelihood security and climate resilience.
The Chief Guest, Dr Shabir Ahmad Bangroo, Senior Scientist, ICAR-CITH, emphasized that soil is a living resource and the foundation of agriculture. He underlined the importance of soil health management practices such as organic manuring, composting, green manuring, crop rotation, mulching, and soil testing, particularly in tribal and rainfed areas.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Arshad H. Mughal, Dean, Faculty of Forestry, highlighted the significance of agroforestry as an integral part of traditional tribal land-use systems, noting its role in improving soil health, conserving moisture, enhancing biodiversity, and providing multiple livelihood benefits.
Dr M. Maqbool Rather, Course Coordinator and Assistant Professor, FBT, emphasized that capacity building goes beyond training and focuses on confidence building through participatory approaches, hands-on demonstrations, exposure visits, and integration of traditional knowledge with scientific practices.
Proposing the vote of thanks, Dr P. A. Khan, Professor & Head, FPT, stated that investing in the capacity building of tribal women is an investment in sustainable agriculture, ecological balance, and inclusive development.
The programme was anchored by Ms Janat, student of the Faculty of Forestry. All Heads of Divisions and faculty members were present on the occasion.