Ganderbal, Sep 21: More than 200 tribal and marginal farmers received agricultural inputs under an ICAR-sponsored project implemented by Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Ganderbal, SKUAST-Kashmir, to strengthen farm livelihoods and promote climate-resilient agricultural practices in the district.

The input distribution programme was organised at Bagpati Gund, Kangan, under the project titled “Strengthening Livelihoods and Agricultural Resilience of Tribal and Marginal Farmers in Ganderbal District through Technology-Driven Resource Packages.” The initiative focuses on supporting farming communities through eco-friendly technologies, improved access to agricultural resources and resilient farming practices.
The programme was attended by MLA Kangan Mian Meher Ali as Chief Guest; Prof. Rajbir Singh, Deputy Director General (Agricultural Extension), ICAR, New Delhi; SKUAST-K Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai; Director Extension Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth; and Associate Director Extension Prof. Amal Saxena.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Rajbir Singh encouraged farmers to adopt modern and eco-friendly agricultural practices to improve productivity and farm incomes. He also appreciated the efforts of SKUAST-K and KVK Ganderbal in extending agricultural interventions to tribal and marginal farming communities.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai highlighted the resilience of tribal farmers and emphasised youth engagement, equitable access to resources and science-driven interventions to support long-term livelihood security and dignity.
Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth urged farmers to adopt eco-friendly farming practices to protect soil and water resources, conserve biodiversity and improve incomes. She stressed the importance of sustainable agricultural approaches in strengthening rural livelihoods.
MLA Kangan Mian Meher Ali appreciated the efforts of SKUAST-K and KVK Ganderbal in directly engaging tribal households. He also acknowledged the University's work in research and farmer welfare.
The dignitaries acknowledged the externally funded project secured by Dr. Ajaz Malik, Head, KVK Ganderbal and Principal Investigator, and its focus on strengthening household resilience among economically vulnerable farming communities.
The programme concluded with appreciation for the efforts of the KVK Ganderbal team in supporting farmers across the district through technology-based agricultural intervention