VC SKUAST-Jammu seeks viable projects for holistic development of horticulture in Jammu region

Jammu: Prof. J.P. Sharma, Vice Chancellor, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Jammu (SKUAST-J) today visited Divisions of Post Harvest Technology and Fruit Science to take stock of teaching, research and extension activities being conducted by the management during ‘Talk at Lawn’ programme.
The ‘Talk at Lawn’ is a unique programme started by Professor Sharma where face to face interaction is facilitated between the University administration and staff members.
The objective of the programme is to listen to the problems, needs and priorities of the University personnel and their solutions are suggested and recommended on the spot.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Sharma highlighted the importance of value addition in the present era. He urged the scientists of the Division of Post Harvest Technology to apply for the patents of their finished products and technology. He suggested them to develop the value added products of cereals and pulses along with fruits and vegetables as these products have high demand in the market due to increasing health consciousness among consumers. He advised scientists of Division Fruit Science to formulate viable projects for holistic development of horticulture in Kandi belt of Jammu Division. He also urged them to conduct research on mango malformation and high density mango cultivation as these are potential researchable issues in tropical areas of Jammu Division. He stressed upon close coordination between the School of Biotechnology and Division of Fruit Science for the improvement of horticulture sector in J&K. On the occasion, Professor Sharma congratulated the scientists for releasing varieties of Walnut and Pecan nuts. He further advised them to work tirelessly for the promotion of innovative techniques like vertical gardening, terrace gardening, soilless cultivation etc. in urban and peri urban areas. Dr. Jag Paul Sharma, Director Research suggested the scientists to work on indigenous germplasm resources of fruits in mid hills and high altitude fruit crops for their further improvement through biotechnological interventions.
During interaction, Dr. Anju Bhat, Head, Division of Post Harvest Technology and Dr. Amit Jasrotia, Head, Division of Fruit Science presented an outline of the current academic and research initiatives and future plans of the Divisions.
The Vice Chancellor was accompanied by Dr. Jag Paul Sharma, Director Research; Dr. Deepak Kher, Director Planning & Monitoring; Dr. D.P. Abrol, Dean, Faculty of Agriculture; Mr. Rajesh Talwar, Registrar and Estates Officer. Earlier, Dr. Anju Bhat, Head, Division of Post Harvest Technology, welcomed Vice-Chancellor and thanked him for his vision and guidance.