Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today inaugurated GON’GUL-2026, the 11th AgriTech Mela, at the Shalimar Campus of the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K).
Ministers Sakina Itoo and Javaid Ahmad Dar, Vice Chancellor SKUAST-K Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, Registrar Prof. Azmat Alam Khan, Principal GMC Srinagar Dr Iffat Hassan, Director Extension Education, SKUAST-K Rehana Habib Kanth, along with university faculty members, scientists and experts participated in the inaugural session.
A large number of growers, progressive farmers, youth innovators and agri-entrepreneurs from different parts of Kashmir also attended the event aimed at enhancing income, productivity and sustainability in agriculture. After inaugurating the three-day AgriTech Mela, the Chief Minister inspected over 100 stalls set up by agri-preneurs, budding and established start-ups showcasing a wide range of innovative agricultural technologies at the university campus.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister interacted with stall owners and enquired about their produce, start-ups, enterprises and technological interventions. Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah highlighted the significant progress and contributions made by progressive farmers, growers, agricultural scientists, faculty members and researchers in transforming the agrarian landscape of Jammu & Kashmir.
He said their sustained efforts are shaping the future of agriculture in the region and driving innovation under various government programmes aimed at modernisation and economic growth. He emphasised that to compete at the global level, Jammu & Kashmir must enhance both the quality and quantity of its local agricultural produce.
Highlighting the role of SKUAST-K and SKUAST Jammu, the Chief Minister said the universities have achieved remarkable milestones in advancing agriculture and horticulture and have played a vital role in supporting and empowering local farmers through research, innovation and field outreach.
The Chief Minister stressed that technology-driven and organic farming solutions are essential prerequisites for boosting the rural economy. He underlined the importance of adopting modern agricultural practices, value addition, branding and market linkage strategies to ensure better returns for farmers.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah further noted that initiatives like GON’GUL provide a crucial platform for farmers to interact with experts, explore innovative tools and access new market opportunities, ultimately strengthening the agricultural ecosystem of Jammu & Kashmir.
He also lauded the innovative displays put up by budding agri-entrepreneurs and start-ups, particularly appreciating student-led technological solutions in farming and irrigation. He emphasised the vital role of universities in advancing agricultural innovation and nurturing the next generation of agri-entrepreneurs.
The three-day mega event, themed “NextGen Agriculture: My Produce–My Price,” is showcasing cutting-edge agricultural innovations, sustainable farming practices and emerging entrepreneurial opportunities in the agriculture sector. The AgriTech Mela is expected to witness participation from progressive farmers, start-ups, agri-business firms, researchers and students over the next three days.