SKUAST-Kashmir Concludes 13th Agriculture Science Congress, Calls for Sustainable Himalayan Development
BY : Sheikh Mohammad Isa
Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-Kashmir), in collaboration with the Integrated Mountain Initiative (IMI), has concluded the 13th J&K Agriculture Science Congress–2026, focusing on sustainable development, climate resilience and environmental conservation in the Himalayan region. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
The Congress was held under the theme “Contouring Sustainable Himalayan Landscapes for Inclusive Viksit Bharat”, with a special focus on “Towards a Sustainable Mountain Development Policy for J&K.”
The valedictory function was attended by Javed Ahmed Rana, Jammu and Kashmir’s Minister for Forest, Ecology and Environment, as the Chief Guest.
The event brought together scientists, researchers, academicians, policymakers, civil society representatives and other stakeholders to discuss challenges and opportunities related to agriculture, the environment and sustainable development in Jammu and Kashmir.
Focus on Sustainable Agriculture and Climate Resilience
The Congress provided a platform for experts to exchange ideas on sustainable farming practices, climate resilience, environmental protection and inclusive development across the Himalayan region.
Discussions highlighted the importance of developing agricultural systems that can withstand changing climatic conditions while protecting natural resources and supporting the livelihoods of mountain communities.
Participants also stressed the need to balance economic development with the conservation of forests, biodiversity, water resources and fragile mountain ecosystems.
Call for a Sustainable Mountain Development Policy
A key focus of the Congress was the need for a sustainable mountain development policy tailored to the specific challenges and requirements of Jammu and Kashmir.
The region’s mountainous landscape, climate conditions and dependence on natural resources make sustainable planning particularly important. Experts and stakeholders discussed the value of policies that take local environmental conditions into account while supporting agriculture, rural livelihoods and long-term economic growth.
The deliberations also highlighted the importance of evidence-based policymaking, ensuring that scientific research and reliable data inform decisions affecting agriculture, the environment and development.
Collaboration for a Sustainable Himalayan Future
The Congress underlined the need for closer cooperation among universities, research institutions, government departments, policymakers and civil society organisations.
Such collaboration can help turn research findings into practical solutions for farmers, mountain communities and environmental protection programmes.
The discussions also emphasised that sustainable development in Jammu and Kashmir requires an approach that combines economic progress with ecological responsibility.
The 13th J&K Agriculture Science Congress–2026 concluded with a renewed focus on scientific cooperation, climate resilience and sustainable mountain development, particularly in the context of Jammu and Kashmir’s environmental and agricultural priorities.
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