Early Times Report REASI, July 8: Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Reasi, operating under the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology-Jammu (SKUAST-J), is providing crucial Agromet Advisory Services to farmers in the district. The advisory services focus on climate-smart agriculture practices, aiming to increase farm income. Dr. Banarsi Lal, Senior Scientist & Head of KVK, Reasi, highlighted that the agro advisories cover a wide range of topics, including agronomy, pest and disease management, soil and water conservation, seed and fertilizer management, and more. These advisories assist farmers in making weather-related decisions related to cultivation, irrigation, harvesting, and livestock care. To ensure timely and effective dissemination of weather-based information, a District Agrometrological Unit (DAMU) has been established at KVK, Reasi. The KVK issues agro advisory bulletins in Hindi and English twice a week (on Tuesdays and Fridays), enabling farmers to manage their crops efficiently and utilize agricultural inputs effectively. Various Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), including WhatsApp groups, are employed to reach farmers at the block level with weather-based agro advisories. Dr. Lobzang Stanzen, Scientist at Agrometrology, emphasized the importance of weather in agricultural production and the role of timely advisories in increasing farmers' income. By providing advance notice of extreme weather events such as heavy rainfall, hails, snowfall, and drought, KVK helps farmers take preventive measures to protect their crops and minimize losses. The utilization of weather-based advisories also aids in reducing production costs. KVK, Reasi encourages farmers to take advantage of Agromet Services to enhance farm productivity and mitigate the adverse effects of extreme weather conditions. The growing interest among new farmers in accessing agro advisories showcases the positive impact of this initiative. |