A special training and capacity-building programme on natural and organic farming was organised at Bhalara village in Bhaderwah, Jammu and Kashmir, to encourage sustainable agricultural practices and improve farmers’ income. The programme was jointly organised by Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-Kashmir) and the Agriculture Department, with the participation of 100 women farmers belonging to the Scheduled Caste community. During the programme, women farmers were provided with Russian earthworms, organic maize seeds and vermicompost to encourage the adoption of natural and organic farming methods. The initiative aims to improve soil fertility, promote environmentally friendly cultivation and strengthen agricultural productivity. Senior Scientist Dr Aijaz Ahmed Lone highlighted the benefits of organic farming and explained how farmers could improve the market value of their agricultural products by adopting sustainable cultivation practices. He also identified the region’s potential for rajma and maize production. Sub-Divisional Agriculture Officer Aamir Rafiqui emphasised the importance of maintaining soil health and adopting environment-friendly farming techniques. The programme also focused on creating awareness about modern agricultural practices that can help farmers reduce dependence on chemical inputs while improving the quality of their produce. This initiative represents an important step towards empowering women farmers, promoting sustainable agriculture and creating better livelihood opportunities in rural areas. By providing practical training and essential farming resources, the initiative aims to encourage women to become active contributors to agricultural development and economic self-reliance in Jammu and Kashmir.
