A total of 86 farmers participated in the 12th day of the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyaan held at Chushul village on June 10, aimed at empowering the farming community through awareness and support.

The event was led by officials from Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Nyoma, along with representatives from the Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, and Sheep Husbandry Departments.

During the session, various farmer-centric schemes and interventions were discussed. A dynamic interaction session allowed farmers to voice local issues and challenges. One major concern was the increasing menace of stray dogs attacking calves, for which farmers urged the administration to extend compensation—currently available only for wildlife-related attacks. They also called for coral fencing to safeguard livestock.

Farmers requested the supply of quality vegetable seeds suitable for greenhouse cultivation and raised alarm over persistent weed problems in crops, especially wild oats locally known as Kasam. Recalling past crop damage due to harsh climatic conditions, they appealed for future compensation mechanisms.

Additional demands included complete fencing around the winter pastureland at Rala Tingru to prevent livestock disturbance, provision of need-based farm implements, and the urgent replacement of a transferred schoolteacher from May 2024, whose absence continues to affect the local school.

Environmental concerns were also raised. Farmers observed a decline in biodiversity, noting that sparrows and eagles have not been seen in the area for nearly 15 years. They linked this to an unchecked rise in stray dog populations and requested the implementation of animal birth control measures.

Informational leaflets in the Bhoti language on vegetable drying techniques for winter storage were distributed, alongside brochures on Soil Health Cards, organic and natural farming, and horticulture-related schemes.

The initiative reflects a strong step towards inclusive rural development and sustainable agricultural practices in the Changthang region.