SKUAST-K Conducts Outreach Programme on Eco-Friendly Pest Management in Budgam

Srinagar, Mar 25 ; The All India Coordinated Research Project on Biological Control of Crop Pests (AICRP-BC), under the Division of Entomology at SKUAST-K Shalimar, conducted a material distribution-cum-scientist–farmer interaction programme at the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) in Budgam on March 24.
The initiative, supported by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research – National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources (ICAR-NBAIR), Bengaluru, aimed to promote sustainable agricultural practices among tribal farmers in the region.
Prof. (Dr.) Rahaina Habib Kanth, Director Extension, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, emphasized the significance of eco-friendly pest management strategies in enhancing farm productivity while ensuring environmental protection.
Dr. Bilal Ahmad Lone, Professor & Head, KVK Budgam, sensitized the participating farmers on the effective utilization of the distributed inputs to optimize crop management and yields.
During the technical session, Dr. Sajad Mohi-ud-Din (Principal Investigator) and Dr. Mudasir Gani (Co-Principal Investigator) delivered comprehensive presentations on integrated pest management in pulses, maize, and apple, with a focus on biological control methods. Dr. Sabia Akhter (SMS Agronomy) highlighted the role of rajmash seed, vermicompost, pheromone traps, and neem oil in sustainable agriculture.
Under the Tribal Sub-Plan initiative of ICAR-NBAIR, essential agricultural inputs, including rajmash seed, vermicompost, pheromone traps, and neem oil, were distributed among 50 tribal farmers. The programme concluded with an interactive session where farmers lauded SKUAST-K’s efforts in promoting sustainable pest management practices.
Dr. Shazia (SMS Soil Science) delivered the vote of thanks.