The Union Territory of Ladakh, known for its breathtaking landscapes and unique cultural and traditional assets, has embarked on a remarkable journey towards becoming India’s first organic UT This ambitious goal has seen the convergence of government initiatives, dedicated line departments, and the active involvement of research centers towards accomplishing a significant landmark.
One of the latest endeavors in this pursuit of sustainable agriculture was made at Krishi Vigyan Kendra Kargil, where a day-long Kisan Gosthi cum Exhibition was organized in collaboration with ICAR-National Bureau of Agriculturally Important Microorganisms (NBAIM). This event aimed to raise awareness among farmers about the indispensable role of beneficial soil microbes in organic farming.
In an effort to accomplish the remarkable feat of becoming India’s first organic Union Territory, Ladakh is witnessing several initiatives from the government, line departments, and research centers.
The Role of KVK Kargil and ICAR-NBAIM
Dr. Mohammad Mehdi Akhone, the Principal Scientist at KVK Kargil, expressed gratitude towards the Director of ICAR-NBAIM for their invaluable support under the tribal sub-plan. This plan seeks to empower the farmers of Kargil, and Dr. Akhone also requested technical assistance and support in isolating and cultivating native microbes, with a particular focus on the Frankia species associated with Seabuckthorn and Russian olive.
Dr. Alok Shrivastav, the Director of NBAIM, emphasized the vital significance of soil microbes in maintaining soil fertility and productivity during his address to the farmers. He also showed a keen interest in collaborating with KVK Kargil to profile the soil microbes in the district and develop technologies for isolating and culturing native beneficial microbes. This collaborative effort underscores the commitment of both organizations to furthering sustainable agricultural practices in the region.
Support for KVK Kargil and the Tribal Sub-Plan
Dr. Alok Shrivastav praised the progress achieved by KVK Kargil under the leadership of Dr. Mehdi in Chiktan and assured continued support by sanctioning projects under the tribal sub-plan. These projects are designed to enhance agricultural practices and benefit the residents of the region. This support signifies a long-term commitment to improving the livelihoods of Ladakh’s farming communities.
Educating Farmers and Practical Demonstrations
The Kisan Gosthi cum Exhibition featured an informative exhibition showcasing various technologies, farm produce, and bio-fertilizers. This exhibition aimed to educate farmers about the latest advancements in organic farming practices and equipped them with the knowledge needed for sustainable agricultural growth.
In addition to the exhibition, practical demonstrations on the cultivation of sweet corn and baby corn were conducted. These demonstrations provided farmers in the district with valuable insights and hands-on experience, further encouraging the adoption of organic farming practices.
The collaborative efforts of Krishi Vigyan Kendra Kargil and ICAR-National Bureau of Agriculturally Important Microorganisms represent a significant stride towards Ladakh’s goal of becoming India’s first organic Union Territory. By raising awareness about the importance of beneficial soil microbes and providing technical support for their cultivation, these initiatives are contributing to the region’s sustainable agricultural development.
The support extended through the tribal sub-plan and the commitment of both organizations to ongoing collaboration underscore the dedication to improving the lives of Ladakh’s farming communities. With each step forward, Ladakh is steadily progressing towards its vision of becoming a shining example of organic farming practices in India. This journey is not only about transforming agriculture but also about preserving the unique ecosystem and culture of this remarkable Union Territory.
