Skuast-K HADP Innovative Network

19/08/2026

Video: SKUAST-K Transfers HADP-Funded Exotic Mushroom Technology to Agriculture Department for Scaling up High-Value, Circular Bioeconomy

Srinagar, August 19: In a significant step towards taking Jammu & Kashmir agriculture into the realm of high-value, knowledge-driven and circular bioeconomy, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir today transferred its patented exotic mushroom production technology to the Department of Agriculture for wider dissemination among farmers and agri-entrepreneurs across the Union Territory.

The technology, developed by the University's Mushroom Research and Training Centre (MRTC), includes production technologies for three high-value exotic mushrooms—Shiitake, King Oyster and Enoki—along with the associated strains. The technology transfer, organised by the Directorate of Research, SKUAST-K, marks an important milestone in taking University research from laboratories and research stations to farmers, entrepreneurs and markets.

The initiative is particularly significant as the exotic mushrooms can be cultivated using locally available woody agricultural and horticultural biomass, including apple-pruning waste, which is otherwise often burnt or discarded. The technology thus converts an environmental liability into an economic resource, creating a waste-to-wealth model while reducing biomass burning and promoting sustainable agriculture.

Speaking on the occasion, Vice-Chancellor, SKUAST-Kashmir, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, said exotic mushroom cultivation represents the transition from conventional agriculture to high-value, resource-efficient and knowledge-intensive agriculture. He said these mushrooms command prices several times higher than conventional button mushrooms, opening significant opportunities for small-scale enterprises, rural youth, women and educated agricultural graduates.

“The next level of agriculture is not merely about producing more; it is about producing higher value, using resources more efficiently and converting waste into wealth. Exotic mushroom cultivation brings together science, sustainability and entrepreneurship and is an important pathway towards a circular bioeconomy.” Prof. Ganai said.

He highlighted the enormous potential of horticultural biomass in J&K and said University estimates indicate that apple-pruning wood alone could support nearly 3.4 lakh tonnes of premium mushrooms annually, with an estimated market value of around ₹17,000 crore. He added that SKUAST-K has developed multiple IPRs and patented technologies in mushroom science and is committed to ensuring their translation into commercial enterprises.

The Vice-Chancellor also appreciated entrepreneurs, including SKUAST-K students Munnazah Naseer and Kamran Showkat, who have taken up the technology at pilot scale, saying such initiatives exemplify the University's “Degree by Design” approach of linking education, research, innovation and entrepreneurship.

Director Agriculture, Shri Sartaj Ahmad Shah, said agricultural diversification has become essential in view of increasing pressure on land and resources and changing market requirements. He appreciated the low land requirement and high-value nature of mushroom cultivation and assured support for taking the technology to farmers and prospective entrepreneurs.

Director Extension, Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, said the initiative demonstrates the importance of the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) in translating science-based technologies into field-level opportunities and strengthening the research-to-farmer continuum.

Dr. Khursheed Ahmad Bhat, Assistant Professor and In-charge, MRTC, made a technical presentation covering production systems, substrate preparation, infrastructure, crop management and enterprise development. He highlighted the Centre's research achievements, including four patented mushroom strains/technologies.

Entrepreneurs who have adopted the technology at pilot scale shared their experiences and highlighted its commercial viability and income-generation potential. A technology book on exotic mushroom cultivation and utilisation of woody agricultural and horticultural waste was also released on the occasion.

The initiative, supported under HADP-10, is envisaged as an important step towards positioning J&K as a hub for exotic, nutritional and medicinal mushroom production, while creating new avenues for agri-entrepreneurship, employment and sustainable utilisation of agricultural biomass.

From waste to wealth, from research to enterprise, and from primary agriculture to bioeconomy—the initiative represents the new direction of agriculture in Jammu & Kashmir.

19/08/2026

In Pictures: 19 Aug 2026
SKUAST-K Transfers HADP-Funded Exotic Mushroom Technology to Agriculture Department for Scaling up High-Value, Circular Bioeconomy

In a major step towards high-value and circular agriculture, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir has transferred its patented technologies for Shiitake, King Oyster and Enoki mushrooms, along with associated strains, to the Department of Agriculture for wider dissemination across J&K.

Developed by the Mushroom Research & Training Centre (MRTC) under HADP-10, the technology enables cultivation using locally available woody biomass, including apple-pruning waste, turning agricultural waste into wealth while reducing biomass burning.

Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Vice-Chancellor, SKUAST-K, highlighted the potential of exotic mushrooms for high-value, resource-efficient agriculture and agri-entrepreneurship. University estimates suggest apple-pruning wood alone could support nearly 3.4 lakh tonnes of premium mushrooms annually, with an estimated market value of around ₹17,000 crore.

Director Agriculture Shri Sartaj Ahmad Shah assured support for scaling up the technology, while Director Extension Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth highlighted HADP’s role in strengthening the research-to-farmer continuum.

Dr. Khursheed Ahmad Bhat, In-charge MRTC, presented the production technologies and the Centre’s achievements, including four patented mushroom strains/technologies. SKUAST-K student entrepreneurs Munnazah Naseer and Kamran Showkat also shared their pilot-scale experiences.

From waste to wealth. From research to enterprise. From agriculture to bioeconomy.

19/08/2026

In Pictures: 19 Aug 2026
SKUAST Kashmir Signs MoU with Mission YUVA & IIM Jammu

Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Mission YUVA and IIM Jammu to provide neo-innovative enterprises with a world-class and finest incubation support model.

The MoU aims to strengthen entrepreneurship, innovation, incubation, and enterprise development by providing aspiring entrepreneurs with access to structured support, mentorship, expertise, and an ecosystem conducive to growth.

The MoU signing ceremony was held at the VC Office in the presence of Prof. Nair Ahmad Ganai, Vice Chancellor, SKUAST Kashmir, marking an important step towards building a stronger innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem in Jammu & Kashmir.

This collaborative initiative is expected to empower emerging enterprises and help transform innovative ideas into sustainable and impactful ventures.

17/08/2026

VIDEO: 𝐒𝐊𝐔𝐀𝐒𝐓-𝐊, 𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐡𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐟 𝐑𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬 – 𝐅𝐏𝐎𝐬 𝐝𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐨𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐳𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐃𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐈𝐅𝐀𝐃-𝐒𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐉𝐊𝐂𝐈𝐏 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭
A Mobilization Drive was conducted under the Upscaling Collectivization Component of the IFAD-sponsored Competitiveness Improvement of Agriculture and Allied Sectors Project (JKCIP) by The Harvesting Harmony Farmer Producer Organisation Cooperative Ltd., Pattan, Baramulla, at Pattan, District Baramulla, in collaboration with the Directorate of Extension, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir on August 17, 2026.
Prof. (Dr.) Raihana Habib Kanth, Director Extension and Dean, Horticulture, SKUAST-Kashmir, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. The programme was attended by Dr. Waseem Hassan Raja, Sr. Scientist & Head, KVK Baramulla; Dr. Mohammad Iqbal Bhat, Coordinator, Upscaling Collectivization, JKCIP, SKUAST-Kashmir; Dr. Shoaib Kirmani, Scientist, KVK Baramulla; Mr. Abdul Hamid, SDAO Pattan; Dr. Waheed Ahmad Ganai, FPO Development Officer (FoDO), Baramulla; FPO Development Officers from various districts of Kashmir; and the Board of Directors, Chief Executive Officer, Accountant and members of The Harvesting Harmony Farmer Producer Organisation Cooperative Ltd. More than 185 prospective members and farmers also participated in the programme.
The mobilization drive was organized with the objective of creating awareness among farmers about the importance of Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), motivating them to become members of the concerned FPO, and strengthening farmer collectives for sustainable agricultural development under the JKCIP.
In her address as the Chief Guest, Prof. (Dr.) Raihana Habib Kanth emphasized that Farmer Producer Organisations are key instruments for transforming agriculture through collective action, improved access to technology, quality inputs, institutional credit, value addition, and organized marketing. She urged the farming community to actively participate in FPOs and take advantage of the opportunities being created under the IFAD-supported JKCIP to enhance their incomes and build resilient farming enterprises. She also highlighted the crucial role of SKUAST-Kashmir in providing continuous technical guidance, capacity building, and extension support to strengthen farmer institutions across the Union Territory.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Waseem Hassan Raja underscored the importance of scientific farming, capacity building, and collective marketing in improving the economic status of farmers. He encouraged the participants, especially women and rural youth, to actively engage with the FPO and adopt improved agricultural technologies for higher productivity and profitability.
Dr. Mohammad Iqbal Bhat, Coordinator, Upscaling Collectivization, JKCIP, SKUAST-Kashmir, elaborated on the objectives of the Upscaling Collectivization component and highlighted the various institutional support mechanisms being extended to FPOs under the project. He stressed that increased farmer membership and active participation are essential for building strong, self-sustaining producer organizations capable of addressing production and marketing challenges effectively. He also highlighted the role being played by SKUAST-K in handholding farmer collectives, including capacity building, value addition and branding of FPO products, in addition to market intelligence.
The programme concluded with an interactive session during which farmers raised queries regarding FPO membership, governance, business planning, and the benefits of collectivization. The experts responded to their concerns and encouraged all eligible farmers to join the FPO and actively contribute to its growth and success.
The management of The Harvesting Harmony Farmer Producer Organisation Cooperative Ltd. expressed gratitude to the Chief Guest, distinguished dignitaries, officials and participating farmers for making the mobilization drive a grand success and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening farmer collectives and promoting inclusive agricultural development under the IFAD-sponsored JKCIP.

17/08/2026

Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir Holds 3rd Graduation Day Ceremony for Veterinary
Graduates at Shuhama Campus

The Faculty of Veterinary Sciences & Animal Husbandry (FVSc & AH), Sher-e- Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir Shuhama, today held its 3rd Graduation Day Ceremony for the graduating batch of BVSc & AH (2020 batch) at the Harmukh Auditorium, Shuhama. The ceremony marked a significant milestone in the academic journey of 77 passing graduating veterinary students, who were presented with their Provisional Degree Certificates upon successful completion of the Bachelor of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry (BVSc & AH) programme. The final degree certificates will be conferred upon them at the forthcoming formal convocation of the
University.
The Graduation Day featured a series of solemn and celebratory events, including an academic procession, Veterinarian oath ceremony, felicitation of academic achievers and the
best outgoing internee student, besides the release of a newsletter on Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan programme series, 4th Edition of Arts & Craft Faculty Club magazine and an
interesting documentary prepared by passing out of students.
Vice-Chancellor, SKUAST-K, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, who was the Chief Guest on the occasion, congratulated the graduating students and their parents, lauding the dedication,perseverance and hard work that had brought them to this important milestone. Prof. Ganai appreciated the Faculty of Veterinary Sciences & Animal Husbandry for its continued commitment towards academic excellence and for nurturing competent Veterinary
professionals equipped to meet emerging challenges. He expressed confidence that the graduating students would step into their professional careers not merely as qualified veterinarians, but as responsible professionals One Health Experts and a conscientious citizen capable of contributing to society at regional, national and global levels as Next Gen leaders. Highlighting the University's recent achievements and growing recognition by reputed national and international institutions, the Vice-Chancellor called upon the young graduates to dream ambitiously, work with discipline and remain steadfast in the pursuit of their goals. He emphasized that professional excellence, when combined with commitment to society, can become a powerful instrument for the development of the region and the nation. Prof. Ganai further highlighted the University’s commitment to improve the national rankings with a strong sense for global aspirations as reflected in endeavours from policy planning to University admissions. Dean, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences & Animal Husbandry, Prof. Riaz Ahmad Shah,
formally welcomed the dignitaries, graduating students, parents, faculty members and other guests and presented a brief report highlighting the major academic and institutional milestones
of the Faculty. Congratulating the graduating students and their parents, Prof. Riaz reflected on the students' academic journey and the achievements that culminated in the presentation of
their provisional degrees. He noted with pride the expanding footprint of SKUAST-K’s workforce in contributing their expertise in reputed institutions and organizations across the UT, country and beyond. Wishing the graduates success in their professional careers, he reminded them that they were leaving the Faculty with much more than academic qualifications. Their education, values and professional training, he said, would enable them to
shape lives and livelihoods while carrying forward the legacy of excellence associated with SKUAST-K. Registrar, SKUAST-Kashmir, Prof. Azmat Alam Khan, administered the Veterinarian
Oath to the graduating students formally marking their transition from veterinary students to members of the Veterinary profession. In his brief address, he urged the young veterinarians
to pursue professional excellence while maintaining integrity, discipline and a strong sense of responsibility towards society. Prof. Azmat emphasized the importance of developing a problem-solving attitude, strong work ethics and high moral and professional values, urging the graduates to uphold the dignity of the veterinary profession throughout their careers. The ceremony also provided an emotional platform for parents and graduating students to reflect on the journey that had brought them to this day. Parents shared their feelings of pride and gratitude, while the graduating students expressed a blend of joy, gratitude, nostalgia and excitement as they prepared to embark upon their professional careers. The Graduation day programme commenced with an academic procession from the premises of the Faculty Outreach Centre, FVSc & AH, proceeding towards the Harmukh Auditorium, the main venue of the event that finally culminated by a group photograph of graduating batch at the end. Director Extension, SKUAST-K, Prof. Riahana Habib Kanth, Director Education SKUAST-K Prof. Mohammad Altaf Bhat, Prof. Sajad Gangoo, Dean Students Welfare, SKUAST-K also graced the occasion and were present on the dais alongside UG coordinator Dr. I M. Allaie, who held the formal proceedings that ended with the vote of thanks presented Prof. Abdul Hai, Lead Warden. The ceremony was also attended by distinguished guests especially Deans/Associate Deans of other faculties of SKUAST-Kashmir, retired faculty members,
parents, students and other guests.

17/08/2026

𝐄𝐩𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐝𝐞 30 | 𝐓𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: 11 April 2026.
https://youtu.be/I-UCBPzF27Y

𝐒𝐀𝐁𝐙𝐀𝐑 𝐒𝐊𝐔𝐀𝐒𝐓-𝐊𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐦𝐢𝐫 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐥𝐲 𝐌𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐳𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐨𝐧 𝐃𝐃 𝐊𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐦𝐢𝐫
𝐒𝐀𝐁𝐙𝐀𝐑, 𝐚 𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐥𝐲 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐦𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰𝐜𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐝𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬, 𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐮𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐒𝐊𝐔𝐀𝐒𝐓-𝐊𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐦𝐢𝐫.

𝐄𝐩𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐝𝐞 30 | 𝐓𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: 11 April 2026.𝐒𝐀𝐁𝐙𝐀𝐑 𝐒𝐊𝐔𝐀𝐒𝐓-𝐊𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐦𝐢𝐫 𝐖...

17/08/2026

In Pictures: 𝐒𝐊𝐔𝐀𝐒𝐓-𝐊, 𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐡𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐟 𝐑𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬 – 𝐅𝐏𝐎𝐬 𝐝𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐨𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐳𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐃𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐈𝐅𝐀𝐃-𝐒𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐉𝐊𝐂𝐈𝐏 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭

A Mobilization Drive was conducted under the Upscaling Collectivization Component of the IFAD-sponsored Competitiveness Improvement of Agriculture and Allied Sectors Project (JKCIP) by The Harvesting Harmony Farmer Producer Organisation Cooperative Ltd., Pattan, Baramulla, at Pattan, District Baramulla, in collaboration with the Directorate of Extension, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir on August 17, 2026.
Prof. (Dr.) Raihana Habib Kanth, Director Extension and Dean, Horticulture, SKUAST-Kashmir, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. The programme was attended by Dr. Waseem Hassan Raja, Sr. Scientist & Head, KVK Baramulla; Dr. Mohammad Iqbal Bhat, Coordinator, Upscaling Collectivization, JKCIP, SKUAST-Kashmir; Dr. Shoaib Kirmani, Scientist, KVK Baramulla; Mr. Abdul Hamid, SDAO Pattan; Dr. Waheed Ahmad Ganai, FPO Development Officer (FoDO), Baramulla; FPO Development Officers from various districts of Kashmir; and the Board of Directors, Chief Executive Officer, Accountant and members of The Harvesting Harmony Farmer Producer Organisation Cooperative Ltd. More than 185 prospective members and farmers also participated in the programme.
The mobilization drive was organized with the objective of creating awareness among farmers about the importance of Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), motivating them to become members of the concerned FPO, and strengthening farmer collectives for sustainable agricultural development under the JKCIP.
In her address as the Chief Guest, Prof. (Dr.) Raihana Habib Kanth emphasized that Farmer Producer Organisations are key instruments for transforming agriculture through collective action, improved access to technology, quality inputs, institutional credit, value addition, and organized marketing. She urged the farming community to actively participate in FPOs and take advantage of the opportunities being created under the IFAD-supported JKCIP to enhance their incomes and build resilient farming enterprises. She also highlighted the crucial role of SKUAST-Kashmir in providing continuous technical guidance, capacity building, and extension support to strengthen farmer institutions across the Union Territory.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Waseem Hassan Raja underscored the importance of scientific farming, capacity building, and collective marketing in improving the economic status of farmers. He encouraged the participants, especially women and rural youth, to actively engage with the FPO and adopt improved agricultural technologies for higher productivity and profitability.
Dr. Mohammad Iqbal Bhat, Coordinator, Upscaling Collectivization, JKCIP, SKUAST-Kashmir, elaborated on the objectives of the Upscaling Collectivization component and highlighted the various institutional support mechanisms being extended to FPOs under the project. He stressed that increased farmer membership and active participation are essential for building strong, self-sustaining producer organizations capable of addressing production and marketing challenges effectively. He also highlighted the role being played by SKUAST-K in handholding farmer collectives, including capacity building, value addition and branding of FPO products, in addition to market intelligence.
The programme concluded with an interactive session during which farmers raised queries regarding FPO membership, governance, business planning, and the benefits of collectivization. The experts responded to their concerns and encouraged all eligible farmers to join the FPO and actively contribute to its growth and success.
The management of The Harvesting Harmony Farmer Producer Organisation Cooperative Ltd. expressed gratitude to the Chief Guest, distinguished dignitaries, officials and participating farmers for making the mobilization drive a grand success and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening farmer collectives and promoting inclusive agricultural development under the IFAD-sponsored JKCIP.

15/08/2026

Video: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir celebrated the 80th Independence Day with great patriotic fervour and enthusiasm.

The National Flag was ceremonially hoisted by Prof. Nazir Ganai, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Kashmir, in the presence of University officers, faculty members, staff and students.
The celebration reflected the spirit of patriotism, unity and national pride, as the entire university fraternity came together to honour the sacrifices of the freedom fighters and celebrate the nation’s remarkable journey.

Addressing the gathering, the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor highlighted the vital role of education, research, innovation and extension in building a strong, self-reliant and prosperous India, while reaffirming SKUAST-Kashmir’s commitment to serving farmers and contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat.
The enthusiastic participation of students added vibrancy and pride to the celebrations, making the occasion a memorable expression of love for the nation and commitment to its future.

15/08/2026

In Pictures: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir celebrated the 80th Independence Day with great patriotic fervour and enthusiasm.

The National Flag was ceremonially hoisted by Prof. Nazir Ganai, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-Kashmir, in the presence of University officers, faculty members, staff and students.
The celebration reflected the spirit of patriotism, unity and national pride, as the entire university fraternity came together to honour the sacrifices of the freedom fighters and celebrate the nation’s remarkable journey.
Addressing the gathering, the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor highlighted the vital role of education, research, innovation and extension in building a strong, self-reliant and prosperous India, while reaffirming SKUAST-Kashmir’s commitment to serving farmers and contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat.
The enthusiastic participation of students added vibrancy and pride to the celebrations, making the occasion a memorable expression of love for the nation and commitment to its future.

14/08/2026

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