KVK Zanskar concludes vocational training to boost agriculture in cold arid regions under Viksit Bharat Initiative.

KVK Zanskar concludes vocational training to boost agriculture in cold arid regions under Viksit Bharat Initiative.
Kargil, October 01, 2024: As part of the nationwide Viksit Bharat initiative, spearheaded by ICAR’s Division of Agricultural Extension, Krishi Vigyan Kendra-II (KVK Zanskar) successfully concluded a series of long-drive vocational training sessions aimed at enhancing agricultural practices in cold arid regions.
These training programs, held in Kargil district, focused on Protected Cultivation, Nursery Raising in Horticultural Crops, and Mushroom Cultivation, and were attended by approximately 200 farmers, including 50 participants in each session, in line with the program’s mandate of engaging at least 25 women and 25 youth per session. The training was conducted over five days, with a strong emphasis on practical application and sustainable agricultural practices.
Dr. Shabber Hussain led the training on Protected Cultivation, where he highlighted the role of protective structures in mitigating both abiotic and biotic stresses in cold arid regions, extending cultivation periods, and enabling off-season production.
Dr. Mohd Mehdi and Dr. F.A. Shah Khan contributed further by discussing the types of crops best suited for such environments, specifically emphasizing off-season vegetable cultivation in protected structures.
Mushroom Cultivation was the focal point of the second and third sessions, supervised by Dr. Akhon Mohd Mehdi. These sessions detailed the environmental, economic, and nutritional advantages of mushroom cultivation, showcasing its ability to generate employment and protect the environment by transforming lignocellulosic waste into valuable products. Hands-on demonstrations were held at KVK Zanskar and Thuena Sankoo, with practical guidance provided by instructor Husniya Banoo.
The fourth training, led by Dr. F.A. Shah Khan, focused on Nursery Raising in Horticultural Crops, teaching participants scientific techniques for growing healthy seedlings and ensuring robust crop stands.
Dr. Hussain further elaborated on how nursery production is pivotal to enhancing yield quality in remote areas. In addition to the skill development component, the training sessions also aligned with the ongoing Swachhata Hi Seva campaign, aimed at raising awareness about the environmental and health impacts of single-use plastics.
Participants were educated on eco-friendly alternatives and encouraged to adopt sustainable practices. The training concluded with vote of thanks delivered by Tashi Dawa, who commended the trainees and staff for their efforts.
Dr. Mohd Mehdi, Principal Scientist and Head of KVK Kargil-II, expressed his appreciation for the successful completion of the training series, which saw enthusiastic participation from the local farming community.
This series of vocational training sessions marks a significant contribution towards skill development in the cold arid regions of Ladakh, fostering sustainable agricultural practices and strengthening the region’s resilience to environmental challenges.