University officials announcing the Agriculture Summit and Kisan Mela 2026 at SKUAST-Jammu
Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu (SKUAST-Jammu) has formally announced the organization of the Agriculture Summit and Kisan Mela 2026, scheduled to be held from February 11 to 13, 2026, at the university’s main campus in Chatha. The three-day mega event is expected to bring together farmers, scientists, policymakers, entrepreneurs, startups and industry stakeholders from across Jammu and Kashmir and other parts of the country.
Addressing the media, Vice-Chancellor Prof. B. N. Tripathi said the summit will be organized around the central theme “AI-enabled Advanced Agriculture.” He emphasized that Indian agriculture is undergoing a critical transformation and technology-driven solutions will play a decisive role in ensuring food security, sustainability and farmers’ income growth in the coming years.
Focus on AI and Smart Agricultural Technologies
Prof. Tripathi highlighted that the summit will focus on artificial intelligence-based smart technologies, data-driven decision support systems, precision agriculture, climate-resilient farming practices and digital innovations. According to him, such tools are becoming increasingly important in addressing challenges like climate change, rising input costs and market uncertainties faced by farmers.
He said the event aims to create a common platform for interaction between farmers, researchers, extension professionals, agri-linked industries and policymakers. The convergence of research, extension and industry is expected to encourage innovation and accelerate the adoption of advanced agricultural practices at the grassroots level.
Knowledge Sharing and Farmer-Centric Programmes
The three-day programme will include expert sessions on improved crop varieties, modern farm machinery, organic and natural farming, entrepreneurship development, startup models, value addition and market linkages. Farmer–scientist interactions and live demonstrations of advanced technologies will be key attractions of the summit.
Special programmes have also been planned for women farmers and young entrepreneurs, recognizing their growing role in the agricultural sector. Progressive farmers will be felicitated for their contributions, with the aim of motivating others to adopt innovative and sustainable practices.
Kisan Mela to Strengthen Grassroots Outreach
Director Extension, SKUAST-Jammu, Dr. Amrish Vaid, said the Kisan Mela component of the event will provide farmers with direct access to scientific knowledge and practical solutions. Farmers will be able to interact with scientists and technology providers, witness live demonstrations of new tools and techniques, and receive guidance on government schemes and agribusiness opportunities.
He added that stalls set up by various government departments, agri-input companies, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), Self Help Groups (SHGs), startups and partner institutions will offer valuable information and services to visitors.
Wide Institutional Collaboration
The Agriculture Summit and Kisan Mela 2026 is being organized in collaboration with several departments and institutions, including the Agriculture Production Department, Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Horticulture, Floriculture, Animal Husbandry, Sheep Husbandry, Fisheries, NABARD, Forest Department, Directorate of School Education, Department of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, IFFCO and the Jammu and Kashmir Farmers Advisory Board.
University officials stated that such multi-departmental collaboration will help ensure comprehensive coverage of issues related to agriculture, allied sectors and rural development.
Brochure Released, Registration Details Shared
On the occasion, the official brochure of the Agriculture Summit and Kisan Mela 2026 was released. The brochure outlines the theme, programme highlights, registration process and participation details for farmers, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders.
The media interaction concluded with a question-and-answer session, during which queries related to registration, stall booking, programme schedule and logistical arrangements were addressed by university officials.