Integrated Pest Management for Apples takes centerstage as CIPMC Srinagar training program concludes

10 August 2024

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Srinagar, 10 Aug – The Central Integrated Pest Management Centre (CIPMC) Jammu successfully concluded the Season Long Training Programme on Apple at the prestigious Winter Hall of SKICC Srinagar. The valedictory function marked the culmination of this intensive 30-day training, which brought together experts, practitioners, and stakeholders from across the horticulture and agriculture sectors.

The event was graced by the presence of Chief Guest Dr. J.P. Singh, Plant Protection Adviser MoA&FW, Govt. of India, who highlighted the critical importance of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) as the sustainable future for pest control in apple orchards. Dr. Singh emphasized that adopting IPM techniques is essential for reducing the dependency on chemical pesticides, thereby safeguarding the environment and ensuring the health of future generations.

Among the dignitaries in attendance were Zahoor Ahmed Bhat, Director of Horticulture; Sartaj Ahmed, Joint Director of Agriculture; S Abdul Hamid Bhat, Joint Director of Horticulture; Dr. Javed Ahmed Mir, Principal Scientist at CITH-ICAR; Yaseen Malik, Farm Manager at the Centre of Excellence Zawoora; Dr. Hilal Ahmed, Horticulture Development Officer Zawoora; Dr. DK Nagaraju, Joint Director (E) RPQS Bangalore; GM Bhat, Retd. Plant Protection Officer; Dr. Mithilesh Kumar Arya, Assistant Director (PP) CIPMC Jammu and Course Coordinator of the training; Haroon Rashid Hakla, Assistant Plant Protection Officer (PP) CIPMC Srinagar; Mujtaba Yehya, Deputy Director Law Enforcement Agriculture Kashmir; Dr. SS Pathania, Professor, Division of Entomology SKUAST-K; and Dr. MK Sharma, Professor, Division of Fruit Science SKUAST-K.

Zahoor Ahmed Bhat underscored the importance of extending such training programs to the block level, ensuring that farmers across the region are equipped with the knowledge and skills to implement IPM techniques effectively. This, he noted, would lead to a more informed and resilient farming community. The training, which covered a wide range of topics, including pest surveillance, pesticide regulations, and sustainable orchard management, was a platform for hands-on learning and field activities. The participants, divided into five groups, engaged in various exercises and presentations. The competition concluded with the Trichoderma group securing first place, followed by the Syrphid fly group in second place and the Chrysoperla group in third place.

The event concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Mithilesh Kumar Arya, Assistant Director (PP) CIPMC Jammu, who appreciated the efforts of all participants, resource persons, and organizing staff for making the training a resounding success. This valedictory function marks the beginning of a renewed commitment to sustainable horticultural practices in the region, with IPM at the forefront of this transformative journey.