To promote entrepreneurship and environmental conservation, the Faculty of Forestry at SKUAST-Kashmir held a one-day awareness program focused on the exploration, cultivation, and conservation of lesser-known wild tree species.
The event, organized by the Division of Silviculture and Agroforestry, attracted over fifty enthusiastic UG and PG students eager to learn about sustainable practices and economic opportunities in forestry.
The program commenced with insightful introductory remarks by Dr. Nazir A. Pala, the Coordinator and Associate Professor at the Division of SAF. Dr. Pala emphasized the significance of this training in empowering students and unemployed youth with vital skills to foster both livelihoods and entrepreneurship in the forestry sector.
The highlight of the day was an engaging lecture by Dr. G. M. Bhat, Professor and Head of the Division of SAF, who elaborated on the importance of wild fruits and lesser-known species in enhancing livelihood opportunities. Dr. Megna Rashid, a scientist from the same division, emphasized the pressing need for such training initiatives in today’s world, focusing on practical solutions and insights from local farmers and stakeholders.
Participants had the unique opportunity to engage in hands-on learning through field visits to a wild fruit nursery and existing plantations. Accompanied by all three scientists, the students gained firsthand experience in the cultural practices essential for cultivating these valuable wild fruits.
Dr. Pala concluded the program by expressing gratitude to the MSME, university administration, and Director of Planning and Monitoring, Prof. Haroon Naik, for their unwavering support and guidance in making the event a success.
This program not only equipped students with knowledge but also ignited a passion for entrepreneurship in the field of forestry, paving the way for the cultivation and conservation of lesser-known wild tree species to enhance both income generation and environmental sustainability in the region.
