Bandipora, Sep 30: Members of Sherpathri Agro Producers Cooperative Limited, Ganderbal, visited Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Bandipora-1, SKUAST-K, for exposure to diversified farming practices, innovative crops and emerging agri-entrepreneurship opportunities.

The visiting Farmer Producer Organisation (FPO) members explored various demonstrations at the KVK, with particular interest in the cultivation of lotus, water chestnut and makhana. They visited the demonstration plots to learn about production practices, crop management and the potential of these crops as alternative livelihood options.
The farmers were also introduced to improved vegetable cultivation practices and other crop diversification initiatives being demonstrated at the KVK. A presentation on the activities and achievements of KVK Bandipora-1 highlighted areas including protected cultivation, natural farming, value addition, crop diversification and agri-entrepreneurship.
An interactive session followed the presentation, during which the FPO members shared their field experiences and discussed production challenges, market opportunities and the scope for taking up new agricultural enterprises. The interaction also provided a platform for discussing the role of collective action in production, marketing and value addition.
Students participating in the Rural Agricultural Work Experience (RAWE) Programme of the Faculty of Agriculture, SKUAST-K, interacted with the visiting farmers and learned about the functioning of farmer collectives and the practical challenges faced by farmers. The interaction also facilitated an exchange of views on agricultural production, diversification and entrepreneurship.
Dr. Tariq Sultan, Programme Coordinator, KVK Bandipora-1, emphasized the importance of crop diversification, adoption of improved technologies, collective marketing and value addition for strengthening farm-based livelihoods. He highlighted the role of KVKs in providing technology backstopping, capacity building and exposure to emerging agricultural enterprises.
The visit provided the FPO members an opportunity to observe field-level demonstrations and assess the scope of diversified and value-added agricultural activities for adoption in their respective areas.