SKUAST-J launches research project on Rooftop Nutritional Gardens

JKST&IC-funded initiative aims to promote urban horticulture, nutritional security and climate-resilient development

Jammu, August 3: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu (SKUAST-Jammu) has commenced the implementation of a research project titled “Standardization of Rooftop Nutritional Gardens for Integrating Urban Horticulture into Sustainable Development Policies of Jammu Region.” The project is funded by the Jammu and Kashmir Science, Technology and Innovation Council (JKST&IC), Department of Science and Technology, Government of Jammu and Kashmir.

The initiative aims to develop and demonstrate scientifically validated rooftop gardening models suitable for urban households, educational institutions and community spaces across the Jammu region. The project seeks to promote nutritional security, environmental sustainability, efficient utilisation of urban spaces and climate-resilient horticultural practices.

As part of the project, the first plantation programme was organised on Monday at the Division of Fruit Science, Faculty of Horticulture and Forestry, SKUAST-Jammu. Prof. Parshant Bakshi, Head of the Division of Fruit Science, inaugurated the rooftop demonstration unit by planting a Kinnow mandarin sapling. Scientists, technical staff and non-teaching staff of the division participated in the plantation drive.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Bakshi highlighted the growing importance of rooftop gardening in improving household nutrition, enhancing urban green cover, mitigating the urban heat island effect and encouraging self-reliance in the production of fresh fruits and vegetables. He said that even limited rooftop spaces can be scientifically utilised to cultivate a wide range of horticultural crops.

The project is being implemented under the leadership of Dr. Kiran Kour, Principal Investigator. It envisages the establishment of rooftop demonstration units and the development of location-specific recommendations for urban horticulture in Jammu.

As part of the outreach programme, the university will organise awareness campaigns, training programmes, field demonstrations, digital extension activities and advisory services to educate citizens on rooftop cultivation of fruits, vegetables and herbs, selection of suitable containers and growing media, water-efficient irrigation and nutrient management, eco-friendly pest and disease management, and year-round rooftop gardening techniques.

University officials said the project is expected to serve as a model for integrating urban horticulture into sustainable development planning while contributing to food and nutritional security, environmental conservation and an improved quality of life for urban residents.

SKUAST-Jammu reaffirmed its commitment to disseminating scientific knowledge and innovative technologies for the benefit of farmers, students, entrepreneurs and the general public, thereby strengthening the vision of sustainable and climate-smart horticulture in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.