Training programme on climate change begins for SKUAST-J scientists

VC SKUAST-Jammu and other dignitaries chairing inaugural session of training programme.
VC SKUAST-Jammu and other dignitaries chairing inaugural session of training programme.

Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Aug 29: Seven- day short training course on “Sustaining Agricultural & Livestock in the Scenario of Climate Change” began here today at SKUAST -Jammu.
The training is being attended by the thirty scientists. The chief guest of the inaugural function was Prof P K Sharma, Vice Chancellor SKUAST- Jammu whereas the guest of honour was Dr J P Sharma, Director Research & Course Director.
The inaugural programme was also attended by Dr  T  S  A  Ganai,  Director Education;  Dr. Deepak Kher, Director Planning; Dr  D.P. Abrol,  Dean of FoA,  statuary officer and Dr Vikas Sharma,  president Teaching Association of the University.
During the inaugural session, Vice-Chancellor Prof P K Sharma delivered a lecture on climate change and its effects on water resources. He emphasized to have a close coordination between the scientist and stock holders. He stressed that potential impact of climate change on the world’s agricultural and natural resources are a subject of growing concern. He emphasized that climate has always been variable, but today there is a growing concern over climate change issues, perhaps because the magnitude of the change seems to be unprecedented.
Prof. Sharma told the gathering that carbon dioxide (CO2) molecules are never found at concentrations higher than a few hundred parts per million (ppm). But they play a critical role in the climatic equilibrium of the planet. “Prior to the Industrial Revolution,  CO2 concentration was 280 ± 10 ppm for several thousand years but in the present atmospheric CO2 concentration is above 360 ppm and such a level has never been reached over the past 420,000 years,” he said and  suggested various climate smart agricultural practices to conserve soil and moisture for better yield.
Earlier, Dr J P Sharma, Director Research & Course Director of the training programme, presented the detailed overview of the training. The proceeding was conducted by Prof S.K.Gupta and Dr Vivak M. Arya. Vote of thanks was presented given by Prof B.C.Sharma.