10/08/2026
*Kisan Goshti by Sheep Husbandry Held at Bandipora Under ATMA*
Bandipora, August 10: The District Sheep Husbandry Organization, Bandipora, today organized a Kisan Goshti under the Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) at the Municipal Hall, Bandipora, with the participation of more than 100 sheep farmers from different areas of the district.
The programme was aimed at creating awareness among sheep farmers regarding various departmental schemes, livelihood opportunities, scientific sheep farming practices and animal health management.
District Sheep Husbandry Officer Bandipora, Dr. Peer Irshad, was the Chief Guest on the occasion. SDO Sheep Husbandry Bandipora Dr. Hayat-ur-Rafiq, Dr. Arfat Aalum, VAS Mantrigam, Dr. Maroof Ahmad, VAS Aloosa, Dr. Saim Qureshi, VAS Animal Husbandry, besides officers and experts from allied line departments, including Horticulture Development Officer Bandipora Mr. Mohammad Abbas, were also present.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Hayat-ur-Rafiq, who gave a detailed overview of the functioning of the Sheep Husbandry Department in Bandipora and highlighted various initiatives being undertaken for the welfare and economic empowerment of sheep farmers.
Dr. Peer Irshad, DSHO Bandipora, while addressing the gathering, elaborated on various government schemes and opportunities available to farmers in the livestock sector. He also provided detailed information about the Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) scheme, for which he is the Nodal Officer, and encouraged farmers to explore value addition and entrepreneurship opportunities in the sheep sector.
Dr. Arfat Aalum, VAS Mantrigam, who served as the Organizing Secretary of the programme, coordinated the proceedings and facilitated interaction between farmers and departmental experts.
Dr. Maroof Ahmad, VAS Aloosa, delivered an informative session on health-care management of small ruminants, covering important aspects of disease prevention, timely treatment, vaccination, deworming and scientific flock management.
Experts from the allied departments also briefed the participants about various schemes, services and opportunities available to farmers, encouraging an integrated approach towards improving farm incomes.
The programme also provided an interactive platform for farmers to raise their concerns and seek expert guidance on issues related to sheep farming, animal health, departmental schemes and livelihood opportunities. The farmers actively participated in the discussions and shared their feedback.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, with the organizers expressing gratitude to all participating farmers, officers and experts for making the Kisan Goshti a meaningful and successful farmer-oriented initiative.
