Srinagar, Feb 5: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) has commenced a seven-day Training Programme on “Fruit Tree Management” from 5th to 09th February 2026 at Directorate of Extension, Shalimar. The programme is being organized by the Directorate of Research, SKUAST-Kashmir, in collaboration with the Directorate of Extension, SKUAST-K, under the IFAD-sponsored Jammu & Kashmir Competitiveness Improvement of Agriculture and Allied Sectors Project (JKCIP).

The training programme is designed to strengthen scientific orchard management practices among stakeholders, with a special focus on capacity building of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) under the Upscaling Collectivisation component of JKCIP. The initiative aligns with IFAD’s strategic priorities of enhancing rural livelihoods, promoting climate resilience, gender equity, youth inclusion, and sustainable agricultural development in Jammu & Kashmir.
The programme was inaugurated today on 5th February,2026 by Chief Guest Prof Raihana Habib Kanth, Director Extension & Dean Faculty of Horticulture, SKUAST-K in presence of Prof Ashiq H Pandith Head Division of Fruit Science & Coordinator JKCIP SKUAST-K, Dr Mohammad Iqbal Bhat, Coordinator Upscaling collectivization JKCIP SKUAST-K , senior faculty and persons from media, The training features an intensive schedule of expert lectures, field demonstrations, hands-on training sessions, and exposure visits. Renowned scientists and subject matter specialists from SKUAST-K, ICAR-CITH Srinagar, Punjab Agricultural University Ludhiana, NRC Grapes Pune, and other premier institutions are delivering lectures on orchard planning, scientific training and pruning, irrigation and fertigation management, flowering and fruiting regulation, pollination management, rejuvenation of old orchards, canopy architecture, and climate-smart fruit production systems.A key highlight of the programme is the exposure visit to ICAR-Central Institute of Temperate Horticulture (CITH), Srinagar, where participants are being trained on advanced concepts such as rootstock–scion interactions, precision pruning, high-density orchard systems, and long-term canopy sustainability.