Docs, agri scientists join hands for research in healthier foods
Naseer Ganai
Srinagar, March 1
As agricultural scientists discussed practices ranging from pesticide and plastic use to nutritional deficiencies, health experts shared data on the alarming increase in various cancers attributed to these practices.
This happened at the first agriculture-medical collaboration initiative at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agriculture Science and Technology (SKUAST). The university’s vice-chancellor suggested that medical science should guide the growing of crops beyond rice and maize, which could improve the quality of life of the people.
During the meet, SKUAST vice-chancellor Dr NA Ganai said, “We have shown the way on how two diverse fields—agriculture and medical sciences—can come together for a common cause to serve our society better.” He said institutions like SKUAST and Medical Institute, Srinagar, have made significant strides over time. “But our challenge now is to ensure a better quality of life as life expectancy reaches 70 to 80 years,” he said. “Many health challenges are caused by agriculture, including from the food we eat.”
Dr Mohd Ashraf, Professor of Endocrinology and Head of Clinical Research, SKIMS, said main goal of such collaborations is to create plans to make good-quality food while reducing health risks. He also said that joint research by doctors and researchers aims to bring different scientific fields together, building on each other’s strengths and fixing weaknesses.
“What we achieved in the past three days is unique. The agricultural faculty presented research papers and discussed agricultural practices, while medical experts shared data on conditions like cancer, diabetes, and high blood pressure resulting from these practices. This collaboration between doctors and agriculturists aims to ensure the production of high-quality food that would improve quality of life.” Dr. Ashraf said, adding it is the first such research collaboration in the country.
The VC said they have established a School of One Health at the agriculture university. “Now agriculture scientists and medical researchers should guide us in cultivating crops beyond maize and rice, based on the scientific evidence available.”
He said the importance of testing all foods entering and leaving the Kashmir Valley for residue levels is necessary as there is concern about the presence of high pesticide loads in “our diet.”
