Srinagar, Aug 06: A seven-day Training of Trainers programme on “Revitalizing Wool and Pelt Industry in Jammu and Kashmir” commenced on Tuesday at the Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry (FVSc & AH), SKUAST-Kashmir.
The programme, organized by the Division of Livestock Products Technology in collaboration with the Division of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Extension, is part of the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP).
The training aims to enhance the skills of Veterinary Assistant Surgeons from the Sheep Husbandry Department across Kashmir Valley in various aspects of wool and pelt production, processing, entrepreneurship, promotion, and marketing.
Prof Shayaib A Kamil, Dean of FVSc & AH, SKUAST-Kashmir, inaugurated the event as the Chief Guest. Prof. Sarfaraz A Wani, Ex-Director Research, SKUAST-Kashmir, attended as the Guest of Honour. Dr. Imran Khaja, SDO Sheep Husbandry Department, represented the Director, while Dr. Asif H Sofi, Head of the Division of Livestock Products Technology, was also present.
In his address, Prof. Kamil emphasized the importance of the training program for the development of J&K’s wool and pelt industry. He urged participants to apply their newly acquired knowledge in the field to support artisans in the woollen sector. Prof. Kamil also stressed the need for developing quality sheep breeds to produce better wool and pelts.
Prof. Wani, a key architect of the HADP project, highlighted the challenges faced by farmers and stakeholders in the wool industry. He emphasized the importance of implementing scientific practices to augment farmers’ income.
Dr. Khaja discussed various aspects of the HADP program and called for increased collaboration between the university and line departments to achieve the project’s goals.
Dr. Sofi, the Organizing Secretary, outlined the program’s objectives, which include training on various aspects of wool and pelt processing, industry revival, entrepreneurship, marketing, and promotion. He mentioned that resource persons from multiple organizations, including agri-business, NABARD, SIDCO, and IICT, will deliver lectures during the program.
The inaugural function concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof. Abdul Hai, while Dr. Sheikh Rafeh Ahmad welcomed the dignitaries, guests, and participants.