SKUAST-K, ICRISAT sign MoU to boost climate-resilient agriculture in J&K
The agreement also includes plans for joint workshops, training programs, and seminars aimed at building capacity among researchers, extension workers, and farmers
Originally published in Greater Kashmir
In a significant development for sustainable farming in the Himalayan region, the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT), Hyderabad, and Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) on Tuesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance research and academic collaboration in climate-resilient agriculture.
The MoU was signed in Hyderabad by ICRISAT Director General Dr Himanshu Pathak and SKUAST-K Vice-Chancellor Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai, laying the foundation for a long-term partnership aimed at addressing the growing challenges of climate change in agriculture, particularly in the ecologically fragile zones of Jammu and Kashmir.
“This partnership with SKUAST-K, an institution deeply rooted in the unique agro-climatic realities of Jammu and Kashmir, reflects our shared commitment to creating sustainable agricultural solutions,” said Dr Himanshu Pathak. “Our collaboration will empower farmers through innovative, science-backed interventions that enhance resilience, productivity, and food security in the region.”
Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai described the agreement as a milestone for SKUAST-K and the region’s agricultural future. “Collaborating with ICRISAT, a global leader in dryland agriculture research, will open exciting avenues for our faculty and students to engage in advanced research, particularly in climate-resilient practices that are vital for the sustainability of farming in J&K,” he said.
The MoU outlines key areas of collaboration, including exchange programs for faculty and students, joint research initiatives, and the co-development of climate-resilient crop varieties and sustainable farming technologies. Emphasis will be placed on water management, soil health, and agricultural innovation tailored to the diverse agro-ecological zones of J\&K.
The agreement also includes plans for joint workshops, training programs, and seminars aimed at building capacity among researchers, extension workers, and farmers. Both institutions will share access to research infrastructure, germplasm resources, and laboratories to accelerate the development and dissemination of climate-smart agricultural solutions.
Officials said the partnership is expected to play a critical role in improving the livelihoods of farmers in the region, enhancing food security, and promoting environmentally sustainable agricultural practices. The collaboration also aligns with broader national and global efforts to mitigate the impacts of climate change through scientific innovation in agriculture.
The MoU comes at a time when Jammu and Kashmir faces mounting climate-related challenges, including erratic weather patterns, declining soil fertility, and increased vulnerability of traditional farming systems. By combining global expertise with local insight, the ICRISAT-SKUAST-K partnership aims to bridge the gap between research and grassroots impact.
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