Srinagar, August 1 (KNS): In a significant step toward fostering youth empowerment and promoting sustainable livelihood opportunities, the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry-Kashmir (PHDCCI), in collaboration with the Department of Animal Husbandry, Bandipora, and with the support of the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), successfully concluded a three-day intensive training program on Poultry Entrepreneurship in Bandipora. This marks the second edition of the initiative, following a successful training program earlier conducted in Kupwara.

The valedictory ceremony, graced by Dr. Sheikh Muhammad Younis, Chief Animal Husbandry Officer, Bandipora, marked the culmination of the program, with participants receiving certificates in recognition of their dedication to acquiring modern poultry farming techniques.

The training brought together esteemed experts and industry leaders, including: Dr. Afaq Amin Najar, Incharge, Farmer Training Class, Hariparbat; Dr. Saim Qureshi, Poultry Extension Officer, Bandipora; Er. Syed Pervaiz Kaiser, Senior Consultant, Industries & Convenor, Industry Affairs (PHDCCI-K); Bilal Kawoosa, General Convenor, PHDCCI-K; Shahid Khan, Co-Convenor, Education & Skill Development, PHDCCI Kashmir; Er. Iqbal Fayaz Jan, Deputy Director, PHDCCI; Dr.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelAbdul Gani Baba, Block Veterinary Officer (BVO), Bandipora; Dr. Nasir Ahmad Buhroo, Technical Officer; and Dr. Khalid Hamid Bhat, Livestock Development Officer, Sumbal.

The program aimed to equip educated yet unemployed youth with scientific knowledge and hands-on skills in modern poultry farming, enabling them to pursue it as a viable and sustainable livelihood option. Participants engaged in interactive sessions covering key aspects of poultry management, including breed selection, nutrition and feed management, disease control and biosecurity measures, market linkages and entrepreneurship development, government schemes, and financial assistance.

The overwhelming response from local youth highlighted the growing interest in poultry entrepreneurship as a means of economic self-reliance. This initiative reflects the joint commitment of PHDCCI, SIDBI, and the Animal Husbandry Department toward skill development, entrepreneurship promotion, and rural livelihood enhancement in Jammu & Kashmir.

By bridging knowledge gaps and facilitating access to resources and markets, the program seeks to catalyze a new wave of agri-entrepreneurs in the region. The third edition of the training is scheduled to be held in Ganderbal district, further expanding its impact. (KNS)