Experts from academia, government and development sectors gathered at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) for the AERA Regional Conference on “Building Resilient Himalayan Agriculture: Climate, Markets, and Inclusive Livelihoods.”
The two-day conference, organised by SKUAST-K’s Institute of Business and Policy Research (IBPR) in collaboration with the Agricultural Economics Research Association (AERA) and the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), is focusing on challenges and emerging opportunities in Himalayan agriculture.
The conference features technical sessions and research presentations on climate resilience, agri-market reforms, digital transformation, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) and inclusive livelihood strategies. The deliberations are expected to generate policy recommendations aimed at strengthening the resilience and sustainability of Himalayan agriculture.
In his welcome address, Organising Secretary and Head, IBPR, Prof Farhet A Shaheen highlighted the challenges posed by climate variability, declining resource efficiency and weak market integration in the Himalayan region. He stressed the need for resilient and market-oriented agricultural systems supported by innovation, institutional reforms and value chain development.
Dr Anjani Kumar of IFPRI underscored the need for data-driven policy responses and stronger research frameworks to address agrarian challenges in mountainous ecosystems. He called for integrating local knowledge systems with modern scientific approaches.
Guest of Honour Dr BN Tripathi of SKUAST-J emphasised the importance of inter-institutional collaboration, efficient agri-value chains and technology dissemination to improve market access and reduce post-harvest losses in remote regions.
Dr PK Joshi of AERA highlighted the role of digital agriculture, improved logistics and institutional innovations such as FPOs in enhancing farm incomes and market competitiveness.
Vice Chancellor SKUAST-K, Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai reaffirmed the university’s commitment to climate-smart agriculture, sustainable resource management and farmer-centric innovations tailored to the Himalayan region.
Delivering the keynote address, Chairman Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP), Prof Vijay Paul Sharma discussed the need for adaptive agricultural pricing mechanisms and stronger institutional support systems to ensure income security for farmers amid climate and market uncertainties.
The inaugural session was moderated by Dr Aiman Fayaz and concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof SH Baba.
