Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, inaugurated the Kisan Mela-cum-Vegetable and Flower Exhibition 2025 at Eco-Park, Leh market, on September 9. The event was organised under the ATMA scheme by the Department of Agriculture.

He was accompanied by First Lady Bindu Gupta; Executive Councillor, Stanzin Chosphel; Administrative Secretary, Bhupesh Chaudhary; Joint Director Agriculture, Thinles Dawa; and Director DIHAR, Dr. O.P. Chaurasia.

Addressing the gathering, the Lt Governor said Ladakh is poised to emerge as the country’s first Model Organic Union Territory  through the Mission Organic Development Initiative (MODI). He underlined that Ladakh’s minimal dependence on chemical fertilisers and pesticides gives it a natural advantage in organic farming.

Applauding farmers for their resilience in Ladakh’s short growing season, he highlighted the global recognition earned by local produce—especially apples, apricots, and GI-tagged crops like sea buckthorn and Raktsey Karpo apricot. He stressed the importance of branding and marketing to position Ladakh’s organic products in national and international markets.

Highlighting innovation, the Lt Governor said the Ladakh Greenhouse Project is enabling year-round vegetable cultivation, meeting local demand and the requirements of the Indian Army in high-altitude areas. Subsidies under the scheme, he noted, are helping overcome winter shortages, create jobs for youth, and promote sustainable agriculture.

He also urged farmers to take advantage of central schemes such as the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana  and Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana for improved irrigation, crop insurance, and risk coverage. He assured that the UT Administration is committed to addressing farmers’ concerns, including recent damage to alfalfa crops due to heavy rainfall.

“Ladakh has the potential not only to feed its people sustainably but also to emerge as a hub of premium organic produce for India and the world,” the Lt Governor said, reaffirming his government’s commitment to strengthening agriculture and farmer welfare.

Executive Councillor Stanzin Chosphel highlighted subsidies under the greenhouse project, the need for a dedicated market for niche Ladakhi products, compensation for damaged crops, and the establishment of a local seed bank. Director DIHAR, Dr. O.P. Chaurasia, emphasized the export potential of Ladakhi horticultural products and efforts to extend vegetable and fruit cultivation throughout the year.

On the occasion, the Lt Governor visited exhibition stalls, inaugurated organic products from Ladakh, and distributed organic certification to nambardars from Tar, Igoo, Kairy, Khaltse, Takmachik, Taru, and Tia villages.