Dubai: Prof. Parshant Bakshi, Head of the Division of Fruit Science and Incharge of the Centre for Organic and Natural Farming at SKUAST-Jammu, delivered a keynote address on “Strategies for Climate Resilient Horticulture: Sustainable Fruit Production under Changing Climatic Conditions” at the International Conference on Climate Change and Natural Resource Management held from November 26-30, 2024, at the Grand Excelsior Hotel in Dubai. The event, organized by the Gochar Educational and Welfare Society (GEWSI), India, brought together 102 experts from countries including India, Indonesia, Thailand, and the UAE. Prof. Bakshi highlighted the urgent need for climate-smart horticultural practices to ensure sustainability amid climate change. He explained that India is particularly vulnerable, with 27 out of 35 states and union territories facing significant climate risks such as floods, droughts, and cyclones. During his address, Prof. Bakshi presented strategies to build resilience in horticulture, including the adoption of water-efficient irrigation systems, organic farming practices, high-density planting, crop diversification, and policy-driven community engagement. He also showcased the Parbat walnut variety, developed under his leadership, as a key example of climate-resilient agriculture.
The conference, which also featured experts in sustainable agriculture, agronomy, and nanotechnology, underscored the need for collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and farmers to ensure long-term food security and improve rural livelihoods.
The event was inaugurated by Prof. (Dr.) Mohammed Inairat, Vice Chancellor of Skyline University College, Sharjah, with Dr. Thidarat Nimchua from Thailand as the Guest of Honour. Prof. Bakshi was presented with a memento and certificate in recognition of his contributions to climate-resilient horticulture.
The conference concluded with a call for global collaboration to foster sustainable agricultural practices and build resilience against climate-related challenges.
