Chief Secretary reviews Agriculture, Horticulture and Cooperative sectors in UT Ladakh.

Chief Secretary reviews Agriculture, Horticulture and Cooperative sectors in UT Ladakh.
Leh, 06 February 2026: The Chief Secretary, UT Ladakh, Shri Ashish Kundra, today chaired a comprehensive review meeting to assess the functioning, progress, and key initiatives of the Agriculture, Horticulture, and Cooperative Departments of the Union Territory.
During the meeting, Administrative Secretary, Agriculture, Bhupesh Chaudhary, made a detailed presentation covering an overview of the agriculture sector in Ladakh, including the area under various crops, the organisational structure, and the staff position of Gazetted and Non-Gazetted posts of the UT cadre.
The meeting reviewed the implementation of major schemes under the State Development Programme (SDP), particularly subsidies related to the Ladakh Greenhouse initiative, as well as the procurement and distribution of seeds. Progress under SDP and Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) such as Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) was also discussed, including the distribution of agricultural machinery and tools.
Under SDP initiatives, the Per Drop More Crop (PDMC) scheme was reviewed, with the Chief Secretary taking stock of the status of micro-irrigation projects across the UT. Discussions were also held on Centrally Sponsored Schemes, including Krishonnati Yojana (KY) and PM-RKVY.
The Chief Secretary reviewed the beneficiary coverage and emphasized the importance of an integrated approach to animal husbandry, directing departments to work in coordination for better outcomes.
The meeting also highlighted achievements in organic certification, organization of Kisan Melas-cum-Exhibitions, and key initiatives such as the introduction of saffron cultivation in Ladakh, promotion of floriculture, and proposed new initiatives including vegetable seed production and implementation of PM Fasal Bima Yojana.
Further, the Chief Secretary discussed the need for organising workshops for progressive farmers and strengthening the role of Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) to ensure wider outreach and scaling up of best agricultural practices.
In the Horticulture Sector, the focused laid on high-density plantations of apricot and other popular varieties such as Halman and Raktsey Karpo, as well as apple varieties including Karkitchu and Mongol.
The meeting reviewed the area and production statistics, organisational structure, vacant staff positions, and budgetary allocation and expenditure for FY 2025–26.
Major projects under SDP Capital and schemes under SDP subsidies and Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) were discussed.
Special emphasis was laid on the construction of the Centre of Excellence for Sea Buckthorn, the establishment of a model apricot processing unit, and the development of new orchards (gardens).
Challenges faced by the horticulture sector were also deliberated upon.
In addition to that, an overview of the Cooperative Department was presented, highlighting the evolution of cooperatives in Ladakh, strategic progress, and the status of cooperative societies in Leh and Kargil districts.
The meeting reviewed manpower availability, recruitment rules, implementation of the Special Development Plan (SDP), state sector budget release and expenditure, and the computerisation of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS).
Special focus was given to the Dairy Cooperatives in Ladakh, wherein the Chief Secretary reviewed the existing parameters and current operational status.
Discussions were also held on the audit status of cooperative societies, revival plans for defunct cooperatives, election drives, and the role and functioning of the State Cooperative Bank (STCB) and other related institutions.
The Chief Secretary underscored the need for improved coordination, timely implementation of schemes, and outcome-oriented planning to strengthen the agriculture, horticulture, and cooperative sectors in UT Ladakh.