AWANTIPORA: Minister for Agriculture Production Department, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election Departments, Javid Ahmad Dar, inaugurated a two-day National level Seminar on “Scientific Honey Beekeeping Integrated with Oilseed Mission” today at Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) here.
The Minister, who was the Chief Guest on the occasion, appreciated IUST’s initiatives in promoting innovation and entrepreneurship, particularly through programs that link science and technology to socio-economic development. He emphasized the economic and ecological importance of beekeeping in enhancing agricultural productivity, biodiversity conservation and improving rural livelihoods
The Minister also visited the i-Factory Lab, Design and Development Lab, Fab Lab, and Ultratech Cement Lab. He assured Government’s full support to the University’s innovation-led initiatives aimed at advancing agri-tech development.
Vice Chancellor, IUST, Prof. Shakil A. Romshoo, in his address highlighted IUST’s innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem and reiterated the university’s commitment to translating ideas into impactful solutions. He noted that the region’s rich biodiversity and favourable climate provide ideal conditions for high-quality honey production, making beekeeping a high-value livelihood with strong potential for export-oriented MSME growth.
Professor at the Sant Longowal Institute of Engineering and Technology (SLIET), Punjab, Prof. Vikas Nanda spoke about recent advances in apiculture research and how technological interventions can improve honey quality and production efficiency.
Founder and CEO of the Academy for Global Business Advancement (AGBA), Washington D.C, Prof. Zafar U. Ahmad stressed the need for branding, quality enhancement, and international promotion of Kashmiri honey to make it a globally recognized product.
Dean of Academic Affairs, IUST, Prof. A. H. Moon, appreciated the relevance of the seminar in linking research with practice.
Earlier, in his welcome address, CEO, CIED-IUST Foundation, Prof. Parvez A. Mir highlighted the activities of the Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development (CIED) and its role in promoting skill-based and sustainable enterprises.
The event sponsored by Ni-MSME Hyderabad brings together experts, policymakers, researchers and entrepreneurs to explore the scientific, economic and entrepreneurial dimensions of apiculture and its integration with the National Oilseed Mission.
Registrar, Prof. Abdul Wahid Makhdoomi; Deans, Directors, faculty members, and students of IUST, as well as a large number of beekeepers from different districts of Kashmir, were also present on the occasion.