Kashmir Agricultural University infrastructure to be strengthened

Srinagar, June 13 (ANI): The Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) has plans to utilise the grant announced by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for infrastructural development.

Dr Manmohan Singh had announced the grant of a billion rupees to the agricultural sector, enable the university in improving technology in areas of crop production, horticulture, cattle rearing, fishery, sericulture and agricultural education.

"It's a challenge for the university. First, that the money we receive will be used at the right time and manner. We request the people involved to work and do a lot of research towards making this effort a success," said the University Registrar Manzoor Ahmad Gora.

The students and faculty welcomed the grant and said that it would be used in improving the standards and the infrastructure of the university.

"In the last 20 years, the university has experienced a lot of setbacks such as strikes and other things due to which our faculty and infrastructure could not develop. The money will be used in various ways such as to improve our lab facilities and infrastructure," said Saima, a student.

Established in 1982, the university is named after the Kashmiri leader Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah.

On June 7, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh during his address at the 5th Convocation of Sher-E-Kashmir University for Agriculture, Science and Technology of Kashmir, said: "There is a lot of scope for improvement in the field of agriculture and horticulture in the state. The Sher-e-kashmir University can contribute substantially in these areas. Over three fourths of the population of the state is engaged in occupations related to land. In rural areas irrigation facilities are inadequate, in many parts there is severe cold and shortage of fodder etc. for six months in a year. The agricultural productivity in the state is low and there is little value addition after harvest."

"To overcome these problems, the Sher-e-Kashmir University can play an important role in improving technology in areas such as crop production, horticulture, cattle rearing, fishery, sericulture and agricultural education. The university in the past has contributed substantially to technological upgradation for temperate and cold desert regions of the country. In recognition of its contribution and in view of its importance to the development of the state, the central government will provide a special grant of Rs. 100 crore to the university," the Prime Minister added. (ANI)