GANDERBAL: SKUAST-K, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Ganderbal, convened a State Level Workshop on the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Act (PPV&FRA, 2001). The workshop served as a dynamic platform for scientists, policymakers, farmers, and civil society members to engage in meaningful dialogue on the Act’s transformative role in safeguarding the interests of farmers and plant breeders while encouraging the development of new plant varieties.
The event was graced by Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganie, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor SKUAST-K, as Chief Guest, and Prof. Raihana H. Kanth, Director Extension SKUAST-K, as Guest of Honour. Heads and scientists from various KVKs of Kashmir, officials from line departments, farm women, and members of civil society enriched the deliberations with their presence.
Dr. Ajaz Ahmed Malik, Senior Scientist & Head KVK Ganderbal, emphasized PPV&FRA as a legal safeguard for farmers and highlighted the workshop as a pivotal step in bridging the gap between scientific innovation and practical farm application. In his keynote address, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganie underscored the Act’s robust framework for protecting plant varieties, farmers’ rights, and breeders’ innovations, while lauding the dedicated efforts of KVK Ganderbal in advancing farmer empowerment. Prof. Raihana H. Kanth shared valuable insights on the Act, congratulated the KVK team for their unwavering commitment to farmer welfare, and stressed the importance of equipping farming communities with knowledge of their rights. Prof. Asif B. Shikari, Chief Scientist GPB, FoA Wadura, provided a comprehensive overview of registration procedures and farmers’ rights under PPV&FRA, further enriching the discourse.
A major highlight of the day was the felicitation of Savior Farmers from various districts, for their outstanding contributions to agricultural innovation and preservation of local plant varieties, On the occasion, scientific publications authored by scientists of KVK Ganderbal, were also released.