SKUAST-K VC Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai Stresses Urgent Need for Climate-Resilient Agriculture in Kashmir

Arising State Correspondent

Awantipora, July 12: Prof. (Dr) Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Vice Chancellor of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), addressed the growing threat of climate change in the Himalayan region. He emphasized the urgent need to shift towards climate-resilient and sustainable farming practices in Jammu and Kashmir.

“In the whole world, and especially in mountainous regions like ours, climate change is becoming a serious challenge,” Dr. Ganai said. “We are now facing heat stress instead of cold stress in Kashmir. Rainfall has decreased, river water levels have dropped, and droughts are more frequent.”

In response, SKUAST-K has developed a Drought Contingency Plan, which offers district-wise guidance on alternate crops and water conservation strategies. “We’ve assessed and graded blocks in every district based on drought vulnerability,” he added.

Shifting Crops and Farming Mindsets

Dr. Ganai stressed the importance of changing crops, recommending the adoption of millets, buckwheat, and drought-tolerant maize varieties. “This is not a temporary phase. Climate change is a permanent shift, and we must change accordingly,” he warned.

He highlighted the role of technology and farmer incentives under programs like the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP). These measures include micro-irrigation, greenhouse farming, and mulching techniques to reduce water loss and improve soil health.

International Collaboration and Climate-Smart Policy

SKUAST-K has partnered with the International Crop Research Institute to create a large-scale policy on climate-smart and resilient agriculture. “Through this partnership, we aim to learn global best practices and prepare our farmers for future challenges,” Dr. Ganai said.

Tackling the Fallout of Chemical Agriculture

The Vice Chancellor also raised concerns about the environmental and health impacts of heavily using chemical fertilizers and pesticides. “We’ve harmed our soil and water quality, damaged biodiversity, and increased health risks due to residues in food,” he cautioned.

Calling for an ‘Evergreen Revolution,’ Dr. Ganai urged a shift to sustainable, eco-friendly, and commercially viable agriculture that protects natural resources and public health.

“We must save our soil, conserve water, and reduce pesticide use. Agriculture should thrive, but not at the cost of our ecosystem,” he concluded.