Enhancing capacity development of Leh farmers

ICAR-Central Arid Zone Research Institute (CAZRI) Regional Research Station at Leh is engaged in enhancing capacity development of farmers of cold arid region in six villages of Leh district of Ladakh region under Tribal Sub-Plan (TSP).

The interventions being implemented at more than 200 sites include diversification of farming through introduction of new crops like maize, rajmash, chickpea; use of quality seed of improved cultivars of local field and vegetable crops; improved agronomic production technologies of crops; and use of small manually operated tools.

Line sowing of crops and seed of new varieties particularly attracted attention of many farmers. Line sowing was found more appropriate for controlling weeds through hand-operated hoeing implement that also helped in saving soil moisture resulting in good crop yields. Farmers also appreciated the better production potential of new vegetable seeds. The interventions being undertaken are critically important for careful management of natural resources for sustainable livelihood in Ladakh region.

(Source: ICAR-Central Arid Zone Research Institute (CAZRI) Regional Research Station, Leh)