SRINAGAR: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K), through its Directorate of Extension, today launched a month-long advanced training programme on “Soil/Silt Testing and Sediment Monitoring in Soil Conservation” to enhance the technical capacity of officials from the Jammu & Kashmir Department of Soil and Water Conservation in scientific soil analysis, watershed management and climate-resilient land resource management. She emphasised that scientific soil and silt testing, coupled with sediment monitoring, is critical for soil health management, watershed conservation and judicious nutrient management. Stressing the importance of continuous capacity building, she said such programmes equip field functionaries with modern scientific knowledge and practical skills to strengthen soil and water conservation, enhance climate resilience and promote sustainable agricultural practices across Jammu and Kashmir. A strong emphasis has been placed on laboratory exercises and field demonstrations to ensure participants acquire hands-on expertise in contemporary soil conservation methodologies. By bringing together expertise from multiple disciplines, the initiative is expected to significantly strengthen the technical capabilities of field officials and contribute to more effective soil and water conservation practices across Jammu and Kashmir.