KVK Srinagar hosts workshop on sustainable backyard poultry farming under IFS model

Srinagar, Aug 1: In a bid to strengthen the Integrated Farming System (IFS) and enhance livelihood and nutritional security for small and marginal farmers, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Srinagar today organised a day-long workshop on sustainable backyard poultry farming at its campus.

The workshop was presided over by Prof R.H. Kanth, Director Extension, SKUAST-K, as the Chief Guest, with Prof. S.A. Simnani as the Guest of Honour. Scientists from the Kendra, officials from the Department of Animal Husbandry and Poultry Development, and a subject expert served as resource persons during the event.

In her valedictory address, Prof Raihana stressed the importance of reviving traditional IFS practices to ensure rural economic stability. She advocated integrating backyard poultry, duckery, beekeeping, and mushroom farming as viable commercial enterprises for small-scale farmers.

Welcoming the participants, Prof. Simnani, Head of KVK Srinagar, highlighted the Kendra’s outreach initiatives aimed at delivering agricultural technology directly to farmers’ doorsteps. He emphasised the role of youth in transforming agriculture into a commercially attractive and sustainable sector.

Workshop coordinator Dr. Ishtiyak Mir delivered a detailed presentation on scientific poultry rearing, disease management, and entrepreneurship strategies. He underscored the role of low-input, ecologically sustainable practices in enhancing rural livelihoods while mitigating environmental degradation.

The event saw active participation from farmers, entrepreneurs, and other stakeholders, who appreciated the initiative’s focus on skill development and rural self-reliance. As part of the program, Keystone poultry birds were distributed to selected rearers under the FLD cum TSP-ICAR scheme by Prof. Kanth.

Prof Kanth also urged KVK scientists to focus on the potential of peri-urban agriculture, noting its relevance in the region’s agro-ecological setting. Dr. Aasima called for a shift toward natural farming in response to declining soil health and health hazards, while Dr. Showket spoke on transitioning to biopesticides.

The workshop was moderated by Dr. Asima Rafiq, who facilitated interaction between experts and participants. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks from Dr. Haseeb-ur-Rehman, who acknowledged the contributions of the speakers and participants.