“The Central Integrated Pest Management Centre (CIPMC) in Jammu organized a field visit for 40 trainees from the Horticulture Department as part of the Season Long Training Programme (SLTP) focused on Apple cultivation. The visit took place at the Advanced Centre for Horticulture Development (ACHD) in Zainapora, Shopian.
Accompanied by Dr. Mithilesh Kumar Arya, Assistant Director (Plant Pathology), and Mr. Haroon Rashid Hakla, Assistant Plant Protection Officer (Plant Pathology) from the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India, the delegation gained comprehensive insights into various apple varieties cultivated at the facility.
Mr. I.A. Wafai, Farm Manager, led the session, with support from Mr. M.A. Shah (District Training Officer), Mr. A.R. Reshi (Horticulture Development Officer), Mr. Waseem ul Islam, and Mr. Furqan Farooq (Incharge Supervisor) at ACHD. The training focused on practical knowledge and current horticultural practices, aiming to enhance trainees’ expertise in apple cultivation.
Dr. Arya praised recent advancements at ACHD, particularly in managing Apple Blotch Leaf Miner (ABLM) and other pests. These improvements were attributed to innovative Integrated Pest Management (IPM) technologies and rigorous sanitation practices implemented by the farm’s dedicated team.
Highlighting the visit’s significance, Dr. Arya emphasized its role in bridging theoretical knowledge with practical application, crucial for sustainable horticultural development. Mr. Haroon Rashid Hakla stressed the importance of advanced training in optimizing apple yield and quality across the region.
