Training Prog on IFS kickstarts at KVK Kupwara

RK News
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29 Jan 2026

Srinagar, Jan 28: A three-day training programme on the Integrated Farming System (IFS) for District Kupwara was kickstarted on Wednesday at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Kupwara under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP-13).

According to a statement issued here, the programme is designed to strengthen farmers’ capacities by promoting sustainable, diversified, and climate-resilient farming practices aimed at enhancing farm income, improving resource-use efficiency, and ensuring long-term livelihood security. The programme commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Nazir Ahmad Bumla, who welcomed the chief guest and participants.Dr. G.M. Bhat, Professor & Head, KVK Kupwara, in his address, highlighted the growing importance of Integrated Farming Systems in addressing challenges such as shrinking landholdings, climate change, and rising input costs. He emphasized that IFS provides a holistic approach by integrating multiple farm enterprises to improve productivity and profitability & underscored the relevance of Integrated Farming Systems in strengthening the rural economy of District Kupwara.

He stressed that diversification through IFS helps farmers minimize risk, efficiently recycle farm resources, and generate additional income throughout the year. He further highlighted the role of continuous capacity building, field demonstrations, and scientific advisory services in successful adoption of IFS models at the farm level. The Chief Guest, Mr. Pir Khurshid, Joint Director Sericulture and presently holding the additional charge of District Sericulture Officer, Kupwara, addressed the gathering and elaborated on the potential of sericulture as a key enterprise within the IFS framework. He stated that sericulture, when integrated with crops, livestock, and agroforestry, can provide sustainable income, generate employment opportunities for rural youth and women, and contribute significantly to the socio-economic development of the district.

During the technical sessions on the first day, scientists and subject-matter specialists from KVK Kupwara delivered expert lectures and interacted with the participants on various components of Integrated Farming Systems, including crop–livestock integration, sericulture-based farming models, nutrient recycling, and efficient use of farm residues. Emphasis was laid on adopting location-specific IFS models suitable to the agro-climatic conditions of Kupwara district. In the afternoon session, the Head, KVK Kupwara delivered a comprehensive lecture on agroforestry under Integrated Farming Systems, highlighting its role in improving soil fertility, conserving natural resources, enhancing biodiversity, mitigating climate risks, and ensuring ecological sustainability. Participants were also briefed on the economic and environmental benefits of integrating trees with agricultural crops and allied enterprises.