Srinagar: Dr. Pankaj Kaushal, Director, ICAR-Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute (ICAR-IGFRI) along with scientists of Srinagar station including Dr. Sheeraz Saleem Bhat, Dr Suheel Ahmad, Dr. Nazim Hamid Mir and Dr. Atufa Regu made a significant visit to the Aru Fodder Seed Production Farm to take stock of ongoing collaborative research and extension activities between ICAR-IGFRI and the Agrostology Division of the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Kashmir.
Upon arrival, the Director was warmly welcomed by the Farm Incharge, Mr Khursheed Ahmad, who provided a comprehensive briefing on the various activities and initiatives being undertaken at the farm. The incharge highlighted key areas of focus, including grassland rejuvenation, piosphere management, and the enhancement of seed production for temperate grasses. Mr. Khursheed also highlighted the immense role of Agrostology in quality seed production of temperate grasses and legumes and informed that the department of Agriculture is already a top producing organisation of grass and red clover seed production in the country, and has been supplying grass/legume seed to IGFRI for further research.
During the visit, several critical topics were discussed, underscoring the importance of sustainable grassland management and fodder production in the region. Key discussions included:
1. Grassland Rejuvenation: The Director and the team deliberated on strategies to rejuvenate degraded grasslands, with a particular emphasis on piospheres – areas around water points that are heavily grazed and often degraded. The discussions centered on adopting scientific approaches to restore these critical ecosystems, ensuring sustainable fodder availability for the local pastoral communities.
2. Enhancing Seed Production of Temperate Grasses/Legumes: Recognizing the need to boost seed production of temperate grasses, the discussions explored innovative techniques and best practices to enhance seed yield and quality. This initiative aims to meet the growing demand for high-quality fodder seeds, supporting the livelihoods of farmers and pastoralists in the region.
3. Support for Pastoralists:
The collaborative efforts of ICAR-IGFRI and the Agrostology Division were commended for their focus on supporting pastoralist communities. The discussions highlighted the importance of providing these communities with access to improved fodder varieties, technical guidance, and capacity-building programs to enhance their resilience and productivity.
Dr. Pankaj Kaushal said these critical topics will further discussed with Director Agriculture Kashmir for future course of action.
The visit concluded with a tour of the farm facilities, where the Director interacted with staff and researchers, gaining first-hand insights into the practical aspects of the ongoing projects.
Shri Chaudhary Mohammad Iqbal, Director, Department of Agriculture and Farmers welfare, Kashmir in his message reiterated the department’s commitment in carrying forward the fruitful collaborations and initiatives vis-a-vis fodder and grassland development to newer heights for the benefit of farming community. Mr. Iqbal expressed satisfaction with the progress made and emphasized the importance of continued collaboration between ICAR-IGFRI and the Agrostology Division. He highlighted the role of such partnerships in addressing the challenges faced by the agriculture sector in Kashmir, particularly in the areas of fodder production and grassland management. He also reaffirmed the department’s commitment to supporting the sustainable development of fodder resources in the region and enhancing the livelihoods of the farming community.(IGFRI)
