Date: October 19, 2025 | Location: SKUAST-K, Shuhama, Ganderbal, Kashmir
Event Overview
Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Cooperative, and Election Departments, Javid Ahmad Dar, presided over the valedictory session of the Livestock Show–2025 (Pashudhan Mela) at SKUAST-K, Shuhama. Organized jointly by SKUAST-Kashmir and the J&K Dairy Farmers Association, the event showcased advancements in agriculture, animal husbandry, fisheries, and allied sectors.
Minister’s Address: A Vision for Rural Prosperity
In his address, Minister Javid Dar emphasized the pivotal role of agriculture and allied sectors in fostering socio-economic development, particularly for rural communities. He highlighted key areas for sustainable growth:
- Infrastructure Development: Enhancing facilities to support farmers.
- Access to Finance: Ensuring financial resources for agricultural initiatives.
- Technological Adoption: Promoting modern tools and techniques.
- Capacity Building: Training farmers for better productivity.
- Market Linkages: Connecting farmers to broader markets.
Dar stressed the need for collective efforts from the government, private sector, research institutions, and civil society to uplift farmers’ livelihoods and drive rural economic progress.
Advocating Integrated Farming Systems
The Minister urged farmers to adopt integrated farming systems, combining crops, livestock, and other enterprises. This approach, he noted, enhances:
- Productivity: Maximizing output through diversified farming.
- Profitability: Increasing income streams.
- Ecological Balance: Promoting sustainable practices.
Such systems reduce risks and foster resilient farming, ensuring long-term sustainability.
Call for Farmer-Centric Research
Minister Dar directed SKUAST-Kashmir’s Heads of Departments to align research and extension programs with farmers’ needs. He emphasized that research should extend beyond laboratories, delivering tangible benefits to farmers, while extension services must effectively disseminate innovations to the grassroots level.
Event Highlights
During the Mela, Minister Dar visited various stalls, engaging with exhibitors and farmers to understand the impact of their initiatives on livestock development. He distributed awards and certificates to participants who excelled in categories related to animal husbandry and livestock management, commending their dedication.
Objectives of Pashudhan Mela
The fair aimed to:
- Promote innovations in agriculture, animal husbandry, and fisheries.
- Facilitate knowledge exchange among farmers, researchers, and industry stakeholders.
- Showcase modern equipment and techniques in farming, fishing, and livestock management.
The event served as a platform for collaboration, highlighting emerging technologies and best practices in the sector.
Notable Attendees
Key figures present included:
- Prof. Shakeel Ahmad Mir, Dean, Faculty of Agriculture
- Dr. Raihana Habib Kanth, Director Extension
- Professor Azmat Alam Khan, Registrar
- Dr. Haroon Rashid Naik, Director Strategies Planning
- Dr. Rafiq Ahmad Shah, Director Sheep Husbandry Kashmir
District officers and members of the farming community also attended, contributing to the event’s success.