The Department of Science and Technology (DST), University of Ladakh (UoL), in collaboration with Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Kargil 1, organised one-day workshop titled “Empowering Farmers through Modern Technologies and Skill Advancement for Entrepreneurship Development: The Way Forward” on October 15.
The workshop aimed to promote modern agricultural technologies and entrepreneurial skills, making farmers more self-reliant while enhancing sustainable agricultural practices in the region.

The event was graced by the Chairman/Chief Executive Councillor (CEC) of LAHDC Kargil, Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, as the chief guest, with University of Ladakh Vice-Chancellor, Prof. S.K. Mehta, attending as the guest of honor. Other notable attendees included Dr. Mohd Hussain, Coordinator of DST Purse, and Dr. Nasreen, Senior Scientist and Head of KVK-Kargil.

In his address, Dr. Jaffer congratulated the organizers for initiating such a vital program aimed at farmer welfare and self-reliance. He emphasized the critical role of agriculture, horticulture, and allied sectors in fostering sustainable development in Kargil. He urged stakeholders to focus on region-specific agricultural advancements and explore diverse opportunities across different areas.

Dr. Jaffer also expressed his gratitude to Vice-Chancellor Prof. Mehta for introducing the Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Agriculture at the University of Ladakh. He advocated for age relaxation in recruitment and emphasized the importance of making Ladakh Resident Certificates (LRC) mandatory in the selection process. Additionally, Dr. Jaffer proposed the establishment of an agricultural campus at the Kargil campus of UoL to further support local agricultural development.

In his speech, Prof. Mehta highlighted the University’s initiatives aimed at empowering women in the region, with a strong focus on agriculture. He thanked the CEC for facilitating the transfer of land cases related to KVK. Prof. Mehta also announced that two units of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) are now affiliated with the University of Ladakh, further strengthening its focus on agricultural education and research.

The workshop featured interactive sessions where participants discussed modern agricultural technologies and skill development programs aimed at fostering entrepreneurship among farmers in Kargil.