SRINAGAR: A two-day regional conference on “Building Resilient Himalayan Agriculture: Climate, Markets, and Inclusive Livelihoods” began on Thursday at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir.
The conference has been organised by SKUAST-K’s Institute of Business and Policy Research in collaboration with the Agricultural Economics Research Association and the International Food Policy Research Institute.
The event has brought together experts from academia, government and development sectors to discuss challenges and opportunities related to Himalayan agriculture.
Over the next two days, the conference will feature technical sessions and research presentations on climate resilience, agri-market reforms, digital transformation, farmer producer organisations, inclusive livelihood strategies and sustainable rural development.
Addressing the inaugural session, Vice-Chancellor SKUAST-K Nazir Ahmad Ganai said the university remains committed to promoting research and policy engagement focused on the unique challenges of the Himalayan region.
He stressed that academic institutions must play an active role not only in knowledge generation but also in policy formulation and implementation at the grassroots level.
Nazir Ahmad Ganai also highlighted the university’s initiatives in climate-smart agriculture, sustainable resource management and farmer-centric innovations.
Guest of Honour B. N. Tripathi of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu underlined the importance of inter-institutional collaboration and innovation ecosystems for transforming Himalayan agriculture.
He stressed the need to develop efficient agri-value chains to reduce post-harvest losses, improve value addition and enhance market access for farmers in remote areas.
Farhet A Shaheen, Organising Secretary of the conference, said climate variability, declining resource efficiency and weak market integration continue to affect the economic viability of farming in the region.
He advocated a transition towards resilient and market-oriented agricultural systems driven by innovation, institutional reforms and stronger value chains, while emphasising the need to empower smallholders, women farmers and rural youth.
Delivering the keynote address, Vijay Paul Sharma presented an analysis of agricultural pricing policies in the context of climate risks and market uncertainties.
He highlighted the need for adaptive pricing mechanisms that take into account regional disparities, production risks and cost variations.
Officials said the conference is expected to generate policy recommendations and strategic inputs aimed at strengthening the resilience, competitiveness and inclusivity of Himalayan agriculture.
