Bandipora, July 11: Director Extension, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), Dr. Raihana Habib Kanth, today visited KVK Bandipora-1 to review its ongoing research, demonstration, and extension activities.

On the occasion, Senior Scientist and Head, KVK Bandipora-1, Dr. Tariq Sultan, briefed the Director about the Centre's major research, frontline demonstrations, extension programmes, and innovative initiatives undertaken for the benefit of the farming community.
During the visit, the Director inspected the Lotus Demonstration Plots, Makhana Demonstration Plots, Water Chestnut Units, Paddy Research Fields, High-tech Greenhouses, and other research and demonstration units established at KVK Bandipora-1. She reviewed the technologies being promoted by the Centre and appreciated their potential in enhancing crop diversification, improving farm productivity, and generating sustainable livelihood opportunities for farmers.
Interacting with the scientists, Dr. Raihana Habib Kanth emphasized the importance of strengthening the linkage between research and extension to ensure the effective dissemination of scientific technologies among farming communities. She highlighted the need for continued field demonstrations, farmer capacity building, and timely technical advisories to address emerging challenges in agriculture.
The Director appreciated the dedication and commitment of the scientists and staff of KVK Bandipora-1 in promoting innovative and location specific technologies. She observed that the Centre's initiatives in Lotus, Makhana, Water Chestnut, protected cultivation, and improved paddy production have significant potential to support sustainable agriculture, diversify farming systems, and enhance farmers' income in the district.
She also appreciated the well maintained research farms and demonstration units and commended KVK Bandipora-1 for its valuable contribution towards strengthening agricultural extension and improving the socio economic well being of the farming community.
The visit concluded with a review of the Centre's future action plan. Dr. Raihana Habib Kanth assured continued institutional support for strengthening research and extension programmes and expressed confidence that KVK Bandipora-1 would continue to serve as a centre of excellence in technology dissemination and farmer empowerment through scientific and need based interventions.