Awareness Camp on Plant Variety Protection and Walnut Promotion Organized in Kishtwar, Jammu & Kashmir

3 October 2025, Jammu & Kashmir

ICAR–Central Institute of Temperate Horticulture, Srinagar, organized a one-day awareness-cum-training programme on “Plant Variety Protection and Promotion of Walnut” at the remote and high-altitude Gunderna village, Mughal Maidan, Kishtwar district, Jammu & Kashmir. The event aimed to educate local farmers on walnut variety protection, propagation technologies, and value enhancement for improved livelihood opportunities.

Kishtwar, located in the Jammu region, offers a highly conducive environment for walnut cultivation owing to its temperate climate, fertile soil, and favorable elevation, making it a potential hub for quality walnut production.

Dr. M. K. Verma, Director, ICAR–CITH, Srinagar, emphasized the importance of such outreach and training programmes for farmers and outlined a future action plan covering farmers’ variety protection, nursery development, establishment of mother blocks, market linkages, and nursery registration.

During the visit, Mr. Sunil Singh, a progressive farmer from Gunderna village, showcased over 10 promising walnut selections, one of which has already been applied for protection under PPV&FRA as a farmers’ variety. The visiting scientists identified several of his selections as highly promising and recommended their registration under the Plant Variety Protection Act to secure intellectual property rights and enable potential royalty and benefit-sharing opportunities.

The Plant Variety Protection Act recognizes the vital contribution of farmers in developing and maintaining superior crop varieties. Registered farmers are entitled to control the production, sale, and distribution of their protected varieties and may receive royalties if these are used commercially. Importantly, farmers are exempt from registration fees, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity in the protection process.

The programme served as a crucial step toward empowering walnut growers in Kishtwar by enhancing awareness on plant variety protection, scientific cultivation practices, and income generation through value addition and legal recognition of farmers’ innovations.

(Source: ICAR–Central Institute of Temperate Horticulture, Srinagar)