Deputy Chief Minister, Surinder Choudhary, today said that Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) Jammu is playing a pivotal role in transforming the lives and strengthening the economy of Jammu region through knowledge-based interventions in agriculture, animal sciences and allied sectors.
The Deputy Chief Minister remarked this during a meeting held with the Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-J, Dr. B. N. Tripathi, at the Civil Secretariat, Jammu.
During the meeting, the Deputy Chief Minister was briefed about the progress and impact of key flagship initiatives in the region. These included Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP), JKCIP and other centrally and UT-sponsored schemes that are benefiting a wide spectrum of farmers and stakeholders across Jammu and Kashmir.
He emphasized the need for effective implementation of these schemes to ensure maximum outreach and tangible benefits at the grassroots level.
The Deputy Chief Minister also enquired about the student enrolment trends and academic programmes being offered by the University, including courses in Dairy Technology, Biotechnology, Veterinary Sciences and Agricultural Sciences. He underlined the importance of supporting and promoting progressive farming in horticulture, agriculture, animal sciences and allied sectors to boost economy and livelihoods.
The Deputy Chief Minister reviewed the status of infrastructure development and flood repair works at the main campus of SKUAST-J and its Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), which suffered damage due to the recent floods in Jammu. He was informed that a detailed assessment report outlining the infrastructure losses has been submitted to the government for timely restoration and repair of the affected facilities.
The Vice Chancellor raised several issues related to the welfare and overall development of the University and sought government’s intervention for their early redressal. He highlighted the need for sustained support to strengthen research, extension services and academic infrastructure.
Assuring full support, the Deputy Chief Minister reiterated that the present government is firmly committed towards promoting the academic excellence, scientific research and innovation in higher education institutions.
He said that SKUASTs will continue to receive necessary assistance to further empower the farmers, boost agricultural productivity and contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic development of Jammu and Kashmir.