Gongul-2026: A Harvest of Innovation at Jammu & Kashmir’s Largest Agri-Exhibition: BY SYED IRFAN HASHMI 

Srinagar. The scenic Shalimar campus of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST-K) has been transformed into a bustling hub of agricultural excellence this week. Gongul-2026, the 11th edition of the university’s flagship AgriTech Mela, concluded today, solidifying its reputation as the region’s largest and most influential agricultural exhibition.

Prominent voices, including Syed Irfan Hashmi, have lauded the initiative, noting that such large-scale events are the “need of the hour” to revitalize the Valley’s agricultural backbone. Hashmi highlighted that by bringing the latest biotechnology and marketing strategies directly to the farmer’s doorstep, the region can finally bridge the gap between traditional toil and modern profitability.

Gongul-2026, Inaugurated by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, the event emphasized a critical shift: moving the farmer from a “price taker” to a “price maker.” In his keynote, the Chief Minister underscored that technology-driven and organic solutions are the only way to compete globally. Value addition, branding, and stronger market linkages are no longer options; they are essentials. Platforms like Gongul ensure our farmers are equipped with the tools to demand the price their produce deserves.

Thousands of visitors flocked to the 11th SKUAST-K AgriTech Kisan Mela, branded as Gongul-2026, at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) in Shalimar, Srinagar. Held from February 14-16, 2026, the three-day event showcased innovations in agriculture under the theme “NextGen Agriculture: My Produce – My Price.”

The mela attracted an impressive footfall, with expectations of over 500,000 visitors based on pre-event projections. Hundreds of agripreneurs, startups, farmer-producer organizations (FPOs), and companies set up around 350 stalls displaying cutting-edge technologies like climate-resilient crops, precision farming tools, and organic products. Live demonstrations, exhibitions, a buyer-seller meet, FPO conclave, and farmer-scientist interactions fostered direct market linkages and knowledge sharing.

Key attractions included thematic shows on fruits, vegetables, mushrooms, medicinal plants, and smart infrastructure, alongside a food carnival and pet/animal displays. Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, SKUAST-K Vice Chancellor, emphasized its role in empowering farmers through entrepreneurship and market-driven farming during the launch press conference.

Organised by SKUAST-K’s Directorate of Extension, Gongul-2026 bridged research, farmers, and markets to promote sustainable practices and income enhancement in Jammu & Kashmir. Stall fees supported the public-interest event, with multinational firms paying Rs 20,000 and sponsorships starting at Rs 50,000. The high demand led to early closure of registrations, underscoring its status as the region’s largest agricultural exhibition.

As the “New Plantation Year” begins, Gongul-2026 has set a high bar for regional agricultural development. By fostering a direct dialogue between scientists and the grassroots farming community, the event has laid the groundwork for a more resilient, technology-driven, and profitable bio-economy in UT Jammu and Kashmir.