Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu (SKUAST-Jammu) has officially announced the Agriculture Summit & Kisan Mela 2026, scheduled to be held from February 11 to 13, 2026, at its Main Campus, Chatha.
The announcement was made during a media interaction addressed by the Vice-Chancellor of SKUAST-Jammu, Prof. B. N. Tripathi, who described the event as a major step towards strengthening technology-driven and farmer-centric agriculture in the region.
Theme Focused on AI-Enabled Advanced Agriculture
The three-day summit will be organised under the theme “AI-enabled Advanced Agriculture.” According to Prof. Tripathi, the event aims to explore how artificial intelligence and digital innovations can be applied practically in farming and allied sectors.
AI-based tools are increasingly being used for crop monitoring, weather prediction, soil analysis, and decision-making support. Therefore, the summit will focus on demonstrating how these technologies can help farmers improve productivity while reducing input costs and risks.
Bringing Agriculture Stakeholders on One Platform
A key objective of the Agriculture Summit & Kisan Mela 2026 is to create a common platform for all stakeholders connected with agriculture and rural development. These include farmers, scientists, policymakers, agri-industries, startups, researchers, and extension professionals.
By enabling direct interaction among these groups, the university aims to promote stronger coordination between research institutions, field-level extension services, and the agricultural industry. As a result, technology transfer and innovation adoption are expected to improve.
Emphasis on Smart and Precision Farming
The summit will place special emphasis on AI-based smart technologies, precision agriculture practices, and data-driven decision support systems. Experts will discuss how sensors, satellite data, and analytics can help farmers take timely and informed decisions.
In addition, climate-smart agriculture practices will be highlighted. These practices are becoming increasingly important due to changing weather patterns and growing concerns around sustainability and resource efficiency.
Expert Sessions on Modern Agriculture Practices
Throughout the three days, expert sessions will be organised on a wide range of topics. These will include improved crop varieties, modern farm machinery, organic and natural farming, and advanced methods of cultivation.
Moreover, sessions on value addition, post-harvest management, and market linkages will help farmers understand how to increase income beyond primary production. Entrepreneurship and startup models in agriculture will also be discussed in detail.
Farmer–Scientist Interaction and Live Demonstrations
One of the major attractions of the event will be farmer–scientist interaction programmes. These sessions will allow farmers to directly share their challenges while receiving scientific guidance tailored to local conditions.
Live demonstrations of advanced agricultural technologies and machinery will also be conducted. This hands-on exposure will help farmers better understand the usability and benefits of new tools before adopting them on their farms.
Dedicated Programmes for Women and Young Farmers
Special programmes will be organised for women farmers and young farmers, recognising their growing role in the agricultural sector. These sessions will focus on skill development, innovation, and leadership in agri-enterprises.
In addition, progressive farmers from different regions will be felicitated during the summit. Their success stories are expected to serve as learning models for other participants.
Kisan Mela to Connect Farmers with Technology and Schemes
Dr. Amrish Vaid, Director Extension at SKUAST-Jammu, informed that the Kisan Mela component of the event will provide a vibrant platform for farmers. Here, farmers will be able to interact directly with scientists, technology providers, and officials from various departments.
Stalls set up by government departments, agri-input companies, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), Self-Help Groups (SHGs), startups, and partner institutions will showcase new technologies, government schemes, and agribusiness opportunities.
Strong Institutional and Departmental Collaboration
The Agriculture Summit & Kisan Mela 2026 is being organised in collaboration with multiple departments and institutions. These include the Agriculture Production Department J&K, Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare Jammu, Department of Horticulture, Floriculture, Animal Husbandry, Sheep Husbandry, Fisheries, NABARD Jammu, Forest Department, and the Department of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj.
Such wide participation reflects the integrated approach required for addressing challenges in agriculture and rural development.
Brochure Released, Registration Details Shared
On the occasion, the official brochure of the Agriculture Summit & Kisan Mela 2026 was formally released. The brochure provides details about the theme, programme schedule, registration process, and participation guidelines for farmers, entrepreneurs, and other stakeholders.
Senior officers of SKUAST-Jammu and representatives from allied departments were present during the announcement, highlighting the importance of the event.
Who Should Participate in the Agriculture Summit & Kisan Mela 2026?
This event will be especially beneficial for:
- Farmers looking for practical and technology-based solutions
- Agri-entrepreneurs and startups exploring new opportunities
- Students and researchers interested in modern agriculture
- Extension officers and policymakers involved in rural development
- Agri-industry representatives seeking collaboration
Conclusion
The Agriculture Summit & Kisan Mela 2026 at SKUAST-Jammu aims to bridge the gap between traditional farming and modern technology. By focusing on AI-enabled solutions, sustainability, and stakeholder collaboration, the event is expected to contribute significantly to knowledge sharing, capacity building, and innovation in the agricultural sector of Jammu and Kashmir.
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