Orientation Course on
“Frontline Extension System for Young KVK Professionals” Begins at ICAR-ATARI,
Ludhiana
Ludhiana,
January 20, 2025
The ICAR-Agricultural Technology
Application Research Institute (ATARI), Ludhiana, inaugurated an orientation
course titled “Frontline Extension System for Young KVK Professionals”
today. The five-day program, running from January 20 to January 24, 2025, aims
to equip newly appointed Subject Matter Specialists (SMSs) of Krishi Vigyan
Kendras (KVKs) in Zone-I with the knowledge and skills to address emerging
agricultural challenges and adopt innovative approaches for sustainable
development.
The event was graced by Dr.
Jatinder Paul Singh Gill, Vice Chancellor of GADVASU, Ludhiana, as the
Chief Guest. Other dignitaries included Dr. Parvender Sheoran,
Director of ICAR-ATARI, Ludhiana, along with scientists and staff members of
the institute.
In his welcome address, Dr.
Sheoran emphasized the significance of the orientation program in enhancing the
capacity of newly recruited SMSs. He elaborated on the achievements of KVKs in
Zone-I, which covers Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir,
Uttarakhand, and Ladakh, and stressed the need for foundational training to
help the participants quickly adapt to the system and deliver on their
objectives effectively.
In
his address, Dr. Gill emphasized the critical role of orientation programs in
preparing young professionals for their responsibilities. He spoke about the
challenges faced by farmers and KVKs, such as climate change, resource
management, and technological advancements, and encouraged participants to
adopt outcome-oriented approaches. Dr. Gill also underscored the importance of
feedback from KVKs to the research system, emphasizing that accurate scientific
data collection and analysis are vital for addressing real-world agricultural
issues. He stressed the need for field-based projects that focus on developing
farmer- and consumer-centric technologies to solve actual field problems
effectively.
The program has attracted 29
participants from Zone-I states, who will engage in interactive
sessions, expert lectures, and practical exercises designed to enhance their
understanding of the frontline extension system. The course is expected to play
a crucial role in fostering a forward-thinking mindset among KVK professionals,
ultimately contributing to the agricultural growth and sustainability of the
region.
