Shalimar, June 3: A three-day national conference on ‘Technological Integrations in Agriculture, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences for Viksit Bharat (TIC-2026)’ today commenced at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar campus.

The conference, organised in association with the Society for Integrated Development of Agriculture, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences (SIDAVES), aims to serves as a national platform for deliberations on emerging challenges and opportunities in agriculture, horticulture, livestock, fisheries, veterinary sciences, and ecological sustainability.
Vice Chancellor, SKUAST-K, Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai, who was the chief guest at the inaugural session, emphasised that technological integration is crucial for transforming India’s agricultural landscape and achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. He described the conference theme as both timely and highly relevant in the current agricultural and ecological context, noting that SKUAST-K has long served as a hub for interdisciplinary research and technological innovation in agriculture and allied sciences.
Prof Ganai highlighted the transformative potential of digital agriculture, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, precision farming, climate-smart technologies, and entrepreneurship in elevating Indian agriculture and realising the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. He further underscored the need for stronger collaboration among researchers, policymakers, industry stakeholders, and farmers to ensure sustainable agricultural growth and food security.
Director Extension, Prof Raihana Habib Kanth, who delivered the inaugural address, outlined the objectives of the conference and its significance in promoting innovation-driven agricultural development through interdisciplinary collaboration and technological advancement. The inaugural was also attended by Director Education, Prof Mohammad Altaf Bhat; Registrar, SKUAST-K, Prof Azmat Alam Khan; and Prof Jag Paul (JP) Sharma, Founder President of SIDAVES. Organising Secretary of the conference, Prof Fayaz Bahar, presented the vote of thanks.
The event witnessed participation from eminent scientists, academicians, policymakers, industry representatives, and delegates from leading agricultural institutions and allied organizations across the country, including ICAR institutes, State Agricultural Universities, research organizations, and extension agencies.
Over the course of three days, experts will participate in eight technical sessions focusing on precision agriculture, nanotechnology, machine learning, genetic resource management, regenerative agriculture, post-harvest technologies, biodiversity conservation, and climate change management.
A special lecture on “Speed Breeding” is scheduled to be delivered by Prof Vikas K Singh, Director and Lead South Asia at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI). These deliberations are expected to generate innovative solutions and policy recommendations to shape future strategies for sustainable agricultural development.
More than 250 delegates from across the country are participating in the conference to present research findings, exchange ideas, and engage in meaningful discussions on contemporary challenges confronting the agricultural sector. A dedicated panel discussion has also been incorporated into the program to formulate actionable recommendations for the benefit of the farming community.
Through its multidisciplinary deliberations and collaborative approach, TIC-2026 aims to contribute significantly to the national mission of building a developed, self-reliant, and sustainable India by 2047.