The Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Budgam, under Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), organized an Entrepreneurship Awareness Program (EAP) at its campus on the theme “Employment Opportunities in Secondary Agriculture.” The primary objective of the program was to empower rural youth through skill development, self-employment, and entrepreneurial capabilities, enabling them to establish sustainable livelihoods in agriculture and allied sectors.

The program was conducted under the MSME-approved scheme for 2025–26, with the patronage of Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, SKUAST-K, and guidance from Dr. Manzoor Ahmad, Director Planning & Monitoring, SKUAST-K. The initiative aimed to create a conducive ecosystem for entrepreneurial activities in agriculture, horticulture, and related sectors, thereby generating new employment opportunities in Jammu & Kashmir.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Benish Shakeel, Senior Scientist and Training Coordinator, KVK Budgam, emphasized that secondary agriculture can transform traditional farming into viable business ventures. She urged youth to make effective use of available resources and enhance their capacities by participating in training programs.
Dr. Shabir Ahmad, SMS (Plant Pathology), elaborated on diverse employment prospects in secondary agriculture. During the program, Ms. Sana Aftab, an emerging woman entrepreneur, shared her success story of producing handmade cold-process soaps using local herbs and aromatic plants. Similarly, Dr. Ishrat Naveed, owner of Sultan Foods, highlighted his practical experiences in establishing a vegetable micro-processing unit at Haraan, Budgam.
The program witnessed active participation from KVK scientists, staff, and young entrepreneurs. Participants engaged in interactive sessions and gained practical insights through discussions with experts. The event reflects SKUAST-K’s continued commitment to strengthening agricultural employment, self-reliance, and the rural economy in the Valley through extension services and entrepreneurship promotion.