Gurez, October 31:Building upon last year’s successful launch of the Mega Potato Seed Multiplication and Supply Chain Program in Tulail, the Division of Vegetable Science, SKUAST-Kashmir, in collaboration with MARE&S Gurez, organized an Awareness-cum-Potato Seed Distribution Programmes under the Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) component of AICRP (Potato) at Gurez, Tulail areas of District Bandipora on 29-31 October 2025.
During the event, 250 quintals of high-quality potato seed, along with other agricultural inputs, were distributed among 150 local beneficiaries at far flung tribal areas like Izmarg, Neeru, Badugam, Safied Malangpora The program marks another milestone in SKUAST-K’s ongoing efforts to transform Gurez valley into a sustainable potato seed production hub, ensuring local self-sufficiency and reducing dependence on external seed imports.
The event was graced by Prof. (Dr.) Haroon R. Naik, Director of Research, SKUAST-K, who interacted with the farmers and emphasized the critical role of quality seed production in improving productivity and income in high-altitude regions like Gurez and Tulail. He highlighted the University’s commitment to extending technological and scientific support to tribal farmers under the TSP initiatives. Prof. Haroon Naik appreciated the efforts of the Division of Vegetable Science, under the leadership of Prof. Ishfaq Abidi and team AICRP Potato coordinated by Prof Faheema Mushtaq in implementing the vision set forth by the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Kashmir, to develop Gurez as a premier potato seed production hub. This initiative, started last year in Tulail, continues to gain momentum as part of a broader mission to make Jammu & Kashmir self-reliant in quality seed production within the next few years
During this mega programme Prof. Ishfaq Abidi, Professor and Head, Division of Vegetable Science; highlighted the key features of the programme and stressed on monitoring purity of seed plots with assured buy back support of quality seed. Prof. Ishfaq Abidi acknowledged the support of Hon’ble Vice Chancellor and Director Research in shaping this programme and team AICRP Potato in implementation of this imitative. Also on the occasion were present Prof. Syed Faheema Mushtaq, Principal Investigator, AICRP on Potato; Prof Hilal Ahmed Malik Professor & Head, MARE&S Gurez and Dr. Feroz Parray, Co-Principal Investigator, AICRP on Potato, who jointly facilitated interactions with the beneficiaries and discussed improved cultivation and seed production techniques suited for the local agro-climatic conditions.
The Division plans to develop Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and cooperatives to help farmers collectively market their seed potato and strengthen local value chains. Training and input distribution programmes have already been held in several villages of Gurez and Tulail to enhance farmers’ technical know-how and productivity and special trainings on seed production have been planned for next year.
This initiative underscores SKUAST-Kashmir’s continued commitment to empowering tribal farmers, improving livelihoods, and promoting sustainable agricultural development in this Himalayan region.
