JK News Today
Kathua, Jammu & Kashmir: Driving the vision of innovation-led agriculture and rural empowerment, a 5-Day Training and Sensitization Programme on “Soil Health Management and Exotic Crop Cultivation” officially commenced at the Industrial Biotech Park, Gathi, Kathua. The high-impact initiative is organized by Rapture Biotech, J&K, in active collaboration with the Jammu & Kashmir Science, Technology and Innovation Council (JKSTIC), Department of Science and Technology, J&K.
The grand inaugural ceremony was graced by Mrs. Babila Rakwal, JKAS, Honourable Commissioner/Secretary to the Government, Science and Technology Department, J&K, who attended as the Chief Guest. The event also witnessed the valuable presence of Dr. Mushtaq Ahmed Bhat, Additional Director, JKSTIC, alongside Guest of Honour Mr. Vishal Mahajan, Chief Scientist and Head of Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Kathua.
Speaking at the inaugural session, Ms Ambika Slathia, Director of Rapture Biotech Jammu, welcomed the dignitaries and highlighted that the core objective of this initiative is to introduce sustainable biotechnology tools and modern economic avenues to the region. She emphasized that aligning with the national vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Start-Up India championed by Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Hon’ble Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, this program is specifically designed to transform local farmers into future-ready agri-entrepreneurs.
Additionally, , ms Ambika Slathia director rapture biotech jammu briefed the gathering on the extensive technical curriculum of the 5-day schedule, which focuses directly on why exotic crops, aromatic plants, and medicinal plants are necessary for modern agriculture. She also highlighted how cultivating these high-value crops boosts local promotion, generates rural employment, and opens up lucrative import-export opportunities for J&K’s farming community.
Key coordinating officials present included AccountsOfficer Ms. Ishita Choudhary (JKSTIC) and Astt Director Ms. Shruti Khanna (JKSTIC)
In her inaugural address, Chief Guest Mrs. Babila Rakwal emphasized the necessity of integrating science-driven solutions into farming to enhance soil vitality and boost rural economies. She actively interacted with local farmers and village Sarpanches, listening closely to their ground-level queries and promising continuous administrative support for skill development.
A standout highlight of the session was the overwhelming and enthusiastic participation of women farmers from Jammu and Kathua. Dignitaries highly praised their presence, noting that women are leading the charge in biotechnology, sustainable farming, and rural entrepreneurship across the region.
The event concluded with a profound vote of thanks acknowledging the collaborative efforts of JKSTIC and Rapture Biotech jammu setting off a new movement of awareness, innovation, and scientific transformation across the region. Echoing a transformative spirit, the program’s vision was encapsulated by expanding the nation’s iconic call to action into a roadmap for a self-reliant India:
“Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan, Jai Vigyan, Jai Anusandhan, Jai Kaushalta, Jai Udyamita, Jai Navachar”
