Srinagar, Feb 14: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday inaugurated the 11th Technology Exhibition, “Gongul-2026,” at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), with the theme “My Produce, My Price.”
The Chief Minister was accompanied by Javed Ahmad Dar, Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, Cooperative and Election; and Sakeena Itoo, Minister for Health & Medical Education, School Education, Higher Education and Social Welfare.
The three-day mega exhibition features a wide array of technological advancements and innovations in agriculture and allied sectors. Major attractions include the Smart Farming Show, Fruit Show, Startup Show, Art & Craft Show, Seed Show, Vegetable Show, Organic Farming Show, Food Carnival, Pet Animal & Fish Show, Mushroom Show, Planting Material Show, Seed Infrastructure Show and the KVK Excellence Show.
More than 400 stalls have been set up by entrepreneurs, startups, farmers, agri-business firms, self-help groups and various line departments. Organisers expect a footfall of around 4–5 lakh visitors over the three days.
Addressing the gathering, Abdullah lauded SKUAST-K for its sustained efforts in promoting innovation, research and entrepreneurship in the agriculture sector. He expressed hope that the university’s initiatives would strengthen the sustainable agri-preneurship ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir and contribute to value addition and farmer empowerment.
He particularly appreciated the university’s focus on nurturing startups and encouraging innovation-driven growth in agriculture and allied fields.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from farmers, entrepreneurs, students, officials from line departments and university representatives, making it a vibrant platform for technology dissemination and stakeholder interaction.
“Gongul-2026” underscores SKUAST-K’s commitment to advancing self-reliance in agriculture and enhancing income opportunities for farmers across the Union Territory.
