Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-Kashmir) hosted a TWO-DAY WORKSHOP on SOLID WASTE BIOCHAR INTERVENTION IN FARMING UNDER TEMPERATE ENVIRONMENT for College Faculty Members scheduled from 23rd to 24th December, 2025. The programme was attended by college faculty members across the valley. The workshop was organised by the Division of Basic Sciences & Humanities, Faculty of Horticulture, SKUAST-Kashmir. The inaugural programme commenced with a welcome address to chief guest, invited dignitaries, resource persons and nominated faculty members of various colleges of the valley. While briefing about the program, organising secretary, Prof. Javeed Iqbal Ahmad Bhat, Head, Division of Basic Sciences & Humanities gave an overview of the workshop which was thoughtfully designed to bring together scientists, academicians, to exchange knowledge, share research findings, and discuss practical experiences related to biochar interventions in farming.

Chief Guest of the occasion Prof. (Dr) Nazir A Ganai, Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Kashmir, highlighted that the temperate regions like ours face unique challenges in terms of declining soil fertility, waste management issues, changing climate patterns, and the need to enhance crop productivity in an eco-friendly manner. At the same time, solid waste generation from agricultural and urban sources is increasing at an alarming rate. Converting this challenge into an opportunity is where biochar emerges as a promising solution. Honourable Vice Chancellor said that he was confident that the technical sessions, deliberations, and interactions would provide valuable insights and pave the way for future research and field-level adoption. The faculty members of various colleges who attended the workshop were hailed to be part of this programme. The workshop provided the opportunity for the young intellects of various colleges to connect with the research advancements of SKUAST-Kashmir that has been transformed into innovation driven research organization. Over the course of this workshop, the participants (College Faculty) recognized that they gained valuable insights into the scientific foundations and practical applications of biochar—particularly its role in improving soil health, enhancing nutrient use efficiency, sequestering carbon, and promoting climate-resilient agriculture. The deliberations have clearly highlighted that biochar is not merely an input, but a strategic intervention that aligns agricultural productivity with environmental stewardship. On the conclusion of workshop on Biochar Intervention in Farming, Prof. Azmat Alam, Registrar, SKUAST-Kashmir commended the organizing committee for meticulously planning this workshop by ensuring meaningful academic engagement. He reiterated that SKUAST-Kashmir’s commitment to promoting sustainable agriculture, innovation, and environmentally responsible research and hoped that let this workshop serve as a stepping stone towards long-term initiatives that benefit farmers, students, and society at large. The two-Day workshop ended with vote of thanks to all by Mrs. Fozia Shafi, Associate Professor, BS&H.