From Vision to Legacy: Prof. Parshant Bakshi's tenure as Incharge CONF Concludes

“Every ending is a new beginning; every journey leaves behind a story of effort, faith, and resilience.”

Today marks the conclusion of my journey as In-Charge of the Centre for Organic and Natural Farming, Chatha, SKUAST-Jammu, which began on October 10, 2022—a span of 2 years and 10 months filled with challenges, learnings, and milestones. This responsibility was entrusted to me by Prof. Jagdish Prashad Sharma, (then Vice Chancellor), in 2022, and I accepted it with humility and determination.

This journey began with a challenge accepted on my behalf by my friend, Dr. Bharat Bhushan (Joint Registrar), whose trust and encouragement strengthened my resolve.

I fondly recall the day I discussed this assignment with my beloved father, Late Sh. Sham Lal, whose words still echo in my heart:

“Your hard work will surely take this Centre to new heights. Parents know you better than yourself.”

His faith, blessings, and inspiring words became the guiding light throughout this endeavor.

¥ From Vision to Reality
The first task was laser levelling the Centre, a simple yet foundational step that received appreciation from the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor. This Centre, conceptualized by Prof. P.K. Sharma (then Vice Chancellor), gradually took shape with relentless efforts and support. I still cherish the moment when, during my official visit to MANAGE, Hyderabad (where I received the Best Film Award, 2024), Prof. Sharma personally called to commend the progress being made here.

¥ Milestones Achieved Together
With the grace of Almighty, the blessings of my parents, and the unwavering support of colleagues, students and stakeholders, several landmark achievements were made during this tenure:

$ Strengthening Infrastructure:

Established a Bio-input Laboratory cum Incubation Centre under HADP Project 16 on Alternate Agriculture System for Sustainability with an outlay of Rs. 3 Cr..

Developed a fully functional Biofertilizer Unit with advanced instruments.

$ Farmer Outreach & Research:

Successfully conducted 14 farmer trainings and implemented 133 On-Farm Research Trials (OFRTs) in the past two years whose recommendations will help the organic growers of Jammu region.

$ Academic Breakthroughs:

Launched Postgraduate Programme in Organic Farming (2022-23) under the Faculty of Agriculture, SKUAST-Jammu.

The first batch of 4 students successfully received their degrees, and the second batch of 4 students recently delivered thesis seminars.

$ Skill Development & Training:

Successfully completed a 30-day training for rural youth funded by National Centre for Organic & Natural Farming, Ghaziabad) in 2022.

Coordinated a one-day training for organic farmers in 2024 funded by NCONF, Ghaziabad.

-Initiated Skill Development Courses for undergraduate students on Natural Farming as per BSMA guidelines for Faculty of Agriculture & Faculty of Horticulture and Forestry.

Seed & Revenue Generation:

Increased organic seed production of Paddy and Wheat, resulting in 35% revenue growth over three years through seed production, product sales, and crop auctions. In addition to this, auction of fruits, vegetables, berseam, and sale of vermicompost, vermiwash, bioformulations, biofertilizers etc

$ Visibility & Engagement:

Welcomed 1240 visitors in three years, including KVK heads, officers, farmers, students, and school groups.

Revamped the Composting Unit into a center for Jaivik and Prakritik Bio-input formulations.

$ Knowledge Dissemination:

Package of Practices for Organic Farming is in its final stage of publication.

Over 20 instructional videos on Jeevamrit, Panchgavya, and related practices documented on YouTube for wider outreach.

“Success is never the result of one person’s efforts; it is a symphony of collective dedication and shared vision.”

As I step down from this role, I carry with me a sense of gratitude and fulfillment. I sincerely thank the Prof. BN Tripathi, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, my colleagues, students, farmers, and all stakeholders for their constant support, cooperation, and trust.

This chapter closes, but my commitment to sustainable and climate-smart agriculture continues with renewed passion.

“The journey doesn’t end here it transforms into a new path of innovation and service.”

With warm regards,
(Prof. Dr.) Parshant Bakshi
Head, Division of Fruit Science
SKUAST-Jammu