Kashmir Impulse Desk

Srinagar, June 3

A three-day national conference focusing on the integration of technology in agriculture, veterinary sciences, and ecology commenced on Tuesday at the Shalimar campus of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K).

The conference, ‘Technological Integrations in Agriculture, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences for Viksit Bharat (TIC-2026)’, has been organised in collaboration with the Society for Integrated Development of Agriculture, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences and aims to provide a platform for discussions on emerging challenges and opportunities in agriculture, horticulture, livestock, fisheries, veterinary sciences and environmental sustainability.

Addressing the inaugural session, SKUAST-K Vice Chancellor Nazir Ahmad Ganai said technological integration would be critical to transforming India’s agricultural sector and achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

Ganai described the conference theme as timely and relevant, highlighting the role of digital agriculture, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, precision farming, climate-smart technologies and entrepreneurship in strengthening agricultural productivity and sustainability.

He also stressed the need for greater collaboration among researchers, policymakers, industry stakeholders and farmers to promote sustainable growth and food security.

Director Extension at SKUAST-K, Raihana Habib Kanth, outlined the objectives of the conference and said it would encourage innovation-driven agricultural development through interdisciplinary cooperation and technological advancement.

Other dignitaries attending the inaugural session included Director Education Mohammad Altaf Bhat, Registrar Azmat Alam Khan and J. P. Sharma, founder president of SIDAVES.

Organising Secretary Fayaz Bahar delivered the vote of thanks.

The conference has attracted more than 250 delegates, including scientists, academicians, policymakers, industry representatives and researchers from across India. Participants represent institutions such as the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), state agricultural universities, research organisations and extension agencies.

Organisers said the event would feature presentations of research findings, discussions on challenges facing the agricultural sector and a dedicated panel discussion aimed at formulating recommendations for farmers and policymakers.