Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) organised a one-day Entrepreneurship Awareness Programme on “Green Skill Training: Household Waste Management & Vermicompost Making” at its Benhama-Watlar campus.The programme, organised by the Division of Social and Basic Sciences, Faculty of Forestry, witnessed active participation from B.Sc. Forestry students.The session began with a lecture by Programme Coordinator Prof. Naseem Geelani, who highlighted the growing importance of green skills in environmental protection, efficient resource utilisation and sustainable development. He said such skills play a key role in addressing challenges like waste accumulation, pollution and climate change, while also opening avenues for employment and entrepreneurship.
Prof. Geelani noted that rapid urbanisation and changing lifestyles have led to a significant rise in household waste, with nearly 50–60 percent comprising biodegradable material such as kitchen and garden waste. He warned that improper disposal could result in landfill overflow, environmental degradation, greenhouse gas emissions and health risks.
Emphasising the need for waste segregation at source, he said it is a crucial step for effective waste management, enabling recycling and composting practices.
The programme also focused on vermicomposting—an eco-friendly method of converting organic waste into nutrient-rich compost using earthworms—which helps improve soil fertility and reduces dependence on chemical fertilisers.
During the practical session, participants visited field-based vermicompost units, where Dr. Vaishnu Dutt, Head of the Division of Silviculture and Agroforestry, demonstrated the preparation process and explained its applications.
Prof. Bilal A. Bhat from the Division of Social and Basic Sciences also participated in the programme.
Prof. Geelani thanked the Vice Chancellor, Director Planning, and Dean, Faculty of Forestry, Prof. A.H. Mughal, for their support. He also acknowledged the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of India, for sponsoring the programme.
