Member of Parliament, Ladakh, Mohmad Haneefa Jan, attended an Exhibition-cum-Mela organised by the Agriculture Department, Kargil, under the Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) on September 19 to promote modern farming practices and farmer welfare.

He was accompanied by Additional District Development Commissioner, Kargil, Ghulam Mohd, JKAS. The dignitaries visited various stalls set up by the Agriculture Department and allied departments.

Chief Agriculture Officer, Kargil, Ashiq Hussain, and Principal Scientist, KVK-I Kargil, Dr Nasreen Fatima, briefed the dignitaries about the agricultural produce, technologies and initiatives showcased at the stalls.

The Chief Agriculture Officer highlighted the important role of farmers in the agricultural economy and encouraged them to make maximum use of government schemes and programmes aimed at promoting agricultural development and improving farmers’ livelihoods.

He informed that, as part of the programme, 50 farmers from Zanskar and Drass undertook a five-day exposure visit to Kargil district to gain practical knowledge of modern agricultural practices and successful farming models. A documentary showcasing the progress and development of agriculture in Kargil, Zanskar and other parts of the region was also screened during the event.

Member of Parliament Haji Hanifa emphasised the potential of agriculture and allied sectors to create employment and self-employment opportunities for the youth of Ladakh. He said that the adoption of modern and advanced technologies could help agriculture emerge as an important sector for economic development in the region.

The MP said he would take up issues related to agricultural development with the Union Government and work towards facilitating suitable projects and support for Ladakh. He stated that the Union Minister of Agriculture had assured all possible support to the UT of Ladakh. He also informed that he had discussed issues concerning agriculture and horticulture with the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh.

Haji Hanifa noted that Ladakh has considerable cultivable land, but limited water availability remains one of the major constraints affecting agricultural production. He called for greater focus on water management, modern irrigation systems and technologies suited to the region.

He further suggested that the Administration and Hill Councils explore and promote suitable schemes and initiatives, including those facilitated through Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), to introduce and demonstrate new crops and modern farming techniques suited to Ladakh’s climatic conditions.

The MP also urged the Agriculture Department and other concerned departments to intensify awareness programmes among farmers so that they are adequately informed about government schemes, eligibility criteria and procedures for availing benefits.

Speaking on the occasion, Additional District Development Commissioner Ghulam Mohd stressed the need to increase agricultural production across the district through modern techniques, improved practices and effective utilisation of government schemes. He said strengthening agriculture could contribute significantly to economic development and generate employment and self-employment opportunities, particularly for youth.

He also emphasised the need to improve packaging, branding and marketing of locally produced agricultural products, besides promoting organic farming.

He assured that the Administration would extend necessary support for improving packaging and marketing infrastructure. He also highlighted the importance of implementing initiatives such as the Lakhpati Didi scheme through better inter-departmental coordination.

Dean SAST Dr Faizan Ahmad, Chief Horticulture Officer Kargil Ali Raza, Chief Animal Husbandry Officer Dr Ghulam Mohd, Principal Scientist, KVK-I Kargil, Dr Nasreen Fatima, officers of the Agriculture Department and other stakeholders were present.

The programme concluded with the distribution of prizes and awards to participants. The Deputy Director, Agriculture, Kargil, delivered the vote of thanks and expressed gratitude to the dignitaries, officers, farmers and other stakeholders for their participation and contribution to the successful conduct of the event.