GON’GUL- the New Plantation Year: Carnival of advances in Agriculture, Horticulture makes SKUAST-K abuzz

Srinagar, Feb 15: On Sunday all roads led to GON’GUL 2026 Festival at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences (SKUAST) Kashmir, Shalimar Srinagar. Thousands and thousands of people from across Kashmir, from all walks of life, in all age-groups, visited the 400 plus stalls of agriculture, horticulture and agro-tech and took home plantation material for the fresh growing season.

The festive atmosphere at the University campus was infused with economic activity rooted in agriculture. Fruit cultivars, local and exotic were the main attraction at the University campus. People showed great enthusiasm for fruit saplings, whips and root-stock. At the Pomology Division of SKUAST-K, brisk sale of apple, cherry, kiwi, grapes, apricots, plums, pomegranates and other fruits were seen. Saleem Hussain, a commercial horticulturist from Budgam said the University has always been the main supplier of his pear and almond trees. “I have been a customer of the SKUAST developed varieties for many years. I only trust them,” he said.

Most people, especially women were seen purchasing fruit trees, especially the exotic varieties for their backyard gardens. “Last year I purchased Kiwi saplings. This year I have purchased Persimmon,” said Tahira Khaliq, a Srinagar horticulture enthusiast.

The vegetable seedlings, polyhouse-raised saplings, ornamental plants, flowering saplings, medicinal herbs and kitchen garden kits witnessed brisk sales. Compost material, gardening tools and horticulture produce, including walnuts and almonds were purchased by enthusiasts. Children were seen enjoying the live music show, the multiple food stalls and a makeshift amusement park.

Agri-technology stalls displayed advances in agriculture practices and took the visitors through thousands of opportunities to turn agriculture into economic activity for small-time farmers. Many agri-based businesses had set-up stalls to showcase the varieties like spices, seeds, honey, pickles and more. The event also saw animal husbandry and diary unit stalls exhilarating the masses with produce and possibilities. Many varieties of diary animals and poultry drew crowds. Youngsters also showcased artworks rooted in seri-culture, wool and wickerwork.

Cultivation spanning many kanals of University showcased high-density apple orchards with a variety of varieties like Granny Smith, T-Rex Gala, Royal Gala etc.

A number of SKUAST-K scientists and extension experts were present at the venue. They offered on-the-spot guidance on pruning, nutrient management, high-density plantations, integrated pest management and protected cultivation. The event also served as a live demonstration of improved agriculture technologies.

‘GON’GUL’ is  named after a traditional Kashmiri reference that marks the onset of spring and agricultural activity. Over the years, it has evolved into a major annual outreach event of the University. The three day event, concluding today, was inaugurated by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.