KVK Kargil-II Zanskar Observes World Soil Day 2025 with a Mega Awareness Programme at Taisuru.

KVK Kargil-II Zanskar Observes World Soil Day 2025 with a Mega Awareness Programme at Taisuru.
Taisuru, 5 December 2025: Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Kargil-II, Zanskar, organized a Mega Awareness Programme on Soil Health Management at Taisuru Block to commemorate World Soil Day 2025. The event drew a remarkable turnout of farmers—particularly women—from Namsuru and adjoining villages, showcasing the increasing awareness and commitment toward sustainable soil management practices in the region.
Councillor Parkachik, Syed Ain-ul-Huda graced the programme as the Chief Guest. Officers from the Departments of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, Rural Development, and Forest Department also participated, adding further significance to the occasion.
In his address, the Chief Guest applauded KVK Kargil-II for organizing such an impactful event under the harsh winter conditions of Taisuru, where outdoor activities remain challenging. He appreciated the KVK team for successfully bringing farmers, scientists, and line department officials onto a shared platform for meaningful discussion and knowledge exchange.
He emphasized that the sessions conducted throughout the day deepened understanding on the critical role of soil as the foundation of agriculture, food security, rural livelihoods, and the planet’s sustainability. Stressing that soil resources are often undervalued, he urged farmers to adopt sustainable soil conservation practices and maintain continuous communication with scientists and field experts for technical guidance. He encouraged farmers to apply the innovative techniques demonstrated during the programme and assured full cooperation in improving agricultural development and rural prosperity.
Dr. Mehdi, Chief Scientist and Head KVK Kargil-II, highlighted the dedicated efforts of the Kendra in developing and promoting agro-climatic–specific technologies for the Zanskar region. He outlined key achievements of KVK Kargil-II including: introduction of high-yielding vegetable pea variety PB-89, promotion of onion variety Red Coral, initiation of high-density apple plantation in Barsoo Nallah, promotion of low-cost protected cultivation technologies, enabling successful cultivation of warm-season vegetables such as brinjal, capsicum, squash, and tomato, and introduction of non-traditional vegetable crops, boosting kitchen gardening even in extreme climatic conditions of Taisuru.
Dr. Mehdi delivered an informative lecture on soil health management, emphasizing the use of locally available resources and natural farming. He highlighted that preparation of natural inputs like Jeevamrut, Ghanjeevamrut, and Agniastra is simple, economical, and highly effective. However, he expressed concern over the increasing reliance on chemical fertilizers supplied through government schemes, cautioning that excessive use could pose long-term threats to soil health in the Ladakh region.
Mrs. Raziya Banoo, District Agriculture Officer, also addressed the participants, presenting detailed insights on departmental schemes aimed at promoting profitable agricultural practices, enhancing productivity, and facilitating farmers to avail government support for new ventures. Representatives from the Forest Department, Animal Husbandry Department, and Rural Development Department shared their perspectives and highlighted the importance of soil conservation under the theme of National Soil Day.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, acknowledging the participation of farmers, officers, and stakeholders for making the event a success.