by Syed Shadab Ali Gillani
SRINAGAR: The Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) has decided to extend its annual AgriTech Mela by a day, making it a four-day event instead of the originally planned three days. The decision comes in response to an overwhelming turnout, with Vice-Chancellor Professor Nazir Ahmad Ganai stating that the inaugural day alone saw more than 40,000 visitors.
Agriculture Minister Javid Ahmed Dar inaugurated Gongul-2025, the 10th edition of SKUAST-K’s AgriTech Mela, which showcases advanced agricultural innovations, sustainable farming techniques, and entrepreneurship opportunities in the sector. The event, held at SKUAST-K’s Shalimar campus, is themed around secondary and sustainable agriculture, in line with the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP).
SKUAST-K, ranked India’s top agricultural university in terms of innovations and fifth overall among all Indian universities, has attracted policymakers, industry leaders, and farmers to discuss strategies for boosting J&K’s agricultural sector. With over 400 stalls, the mela features the latest in farm machinery, precision agriculture, quality seeds and planting material, farm animals, and birds. A notable addition this year is a pet animal show, where trained dogs and cats demonstrated their skills.
During the inaugural address, Javid Ahmed Dar praised SKUAST-K’s efforts in connecting modern agricultural advancements with Kashmir’s rich traditions through the name Gongul. He reminisced about childhood sowing season activities in Kashmir and urged the preservation of Kashmiri culture, renowned for its cuisine, literature, and architecture. Highlighting the impact of HADP, he assured full government support for SKUAST-K’s initiatives and promised strict action against spurious agrochemical trade.
Professor Ganai said the event represents J&K’s aspirations under HADP and SKUAST-K’s vision of establishing the region as a model bioeconomy for Viksit Bharat. He expressed gratitude to the J&K Government for its continued support.
Legislators also weighed in on key agricultural issues. Kreeri MLA Irfan Hafiz Lone called for stronger policies to prevent agricultural land shrinkage and promote local produce exports, while Sonawari MLA Hilal Akbar Lone emphasised enforcing existing laws to protect natural resources. Chairman of the Institute of Social and Economic Change, Bengaluru, Ashok Dalwai, noted that J&K’s agricultural transformation under HADP has national significance, contributing to India’s Vision 2047 goals.
The expanded AgriTech Mela features multiple specialised segments, including the Brand Bizz Fest for networking among multinational corporations, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), Self-Help Groups (SHGs), and industry leaders. The Food Fest, led by student startups and local entrepreneurs, highlights traditional and contemporary cuisines. The Startup and Tech Show presents groundbreaking agricultural innovations, while the Industry Exhibition displays cutting-edge farming technologies.
Sustainable farming remains a major focus of the event, with the Organic and Natural Farming Show promoting bio-inputs, and the Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Show exploring the potential of Himalayan herbs. The Processed Products Show highlights value-added farm products, while the Seed and Planting Material Show offers high-quality seeds and plants to farmers and gardening enthusiasts.
Professor Nazir Ahmad Ganai said the mela, branded as Gongul to reflect traditional Kashmiri agricultural practices, will showcase 350 stalls, including contributions from champion and progressive farmers, agripreneurs, agri-industrialists, and FPOs.
“This event is a true representation of the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme, displaying all aspects covered under HADP over the years,” he said, noting that demand for stall space was so high that SKUAST-K had to close new registrations after reaching capacity.
A major highlight of the mela is the showcase of 52 startups launched by SKUAST-K students and faculty members, the highest number by any agricultural university in India. The university has also registered 52 patents in the last three years, with 31 filed in the previous year alone, further solidifying its reputation as a leader in agricultural innovation.
The extended event is expected to draw even greater participation, reinforcing SKUAST-K’s status as a hub of innovation and progress in Indian agriculture.
