SKUAST developed solar drying tech for J

Srinagar, Apr 19: The Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology has developed Solar Drying technology for saffron and rice-wheat cropping system, an official spokesman said here today.

He said this was revealed at the 37th Research Council Meet (Kharief-2006) of the University.

The meet also reviewed the research work conducted during Kharief-2005 and approved new research programmes for Kharief-2006, he said.

As many as 42 research projects and technologies concluded during 2005-06, were discussed in the meeting held at Shalimar Campus of the University under the chairmanship of Vice Chancellor, Prof Anwar Aalam.

Some of the significant highlights were solar drying technology developed for saffron and rice-wheat cropping system which would be disseminated to field for the benefit of the farmers.

Vice chancellor in his address exhorted the scientists to focus their attention on need based multidisciplinary research programmes to improve the production and productivity of various agricultural crops, livestock and poultry to make Jammu and Kashmir substantially food secure for the burgeoning population.

He also added that science and technology must be put to proper use and proper attention needs to be given to the removal of farm drudgery, post harvest and value addition and on farm processing to generate more income and employment in the State.

He advised that Research and Development should be taken to remove food, feed, vegetable deficits in winter months, and meat deficits in Kashmir Valley.

While appreciating the efforts of the scientists to evolve new varieties and technologies for the benefit of the farming community, Director Research, Prof A R Trag stressed for formulating research projects suited to diverse climatic conditions of different zones of Kashmir and Ladakh to realise more yields per unit area.

He also desired to develop varieties and technologies which can withstand moisture stress, water logging, attack of pests and diseases besides having lesser maturity period to improve rural economy and develop quality produce of various crops to compete at national and international market for better returns.

UNI