Leh, May 13: A four-day residential training programme on Organic and Natural Farming for Krishi Sakhis commenced on Tuesday across both districts of Ladakh as part of efforts to strengthen sustainable agricultural practices and grassroots-level farming outreach in the Union Territory.
The programme is being organised in collaboration with the University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences and Technology of Ladakh and focuses on enhancing the knowledge and practical skills of Krishi Sakhis engaged in rural livelihood and agricultural extension activities.
Officials associated with the programme said the training is aimed at promoting environmentally sustainable farming methods and creating awareness about organic cultivation practices suited to Ladakh’s unique climatic and ecological conditions.
The inaugural sessions were attended by Chief Scientist Dr. Faizan, Director Rural Development Department Sayeed Sajad Qaderi, the Chief Accounts Officer of the Rural Development Department and resource persons from the University.
The training began with orientation sessions introducing participants to the fundamentals of Organic and Natural Farming, including soil health management, sustainable crop practices and low-input agricultural techniques.
As part of the programme, participants were also taken on field visits to University farms, where they received practical exposure and hands-on training related to sustainable farming systems and natural cultivation methods.
Officials said the initiative seeks to strengthen the role of Krishi Sakhis as community-level resource persons capable of promoting scientific and eco-friendly agricultural practices among farmers in rural areas.
The programme forms part of broader efforts being undertaken in Ladakh to encourage sustainable agriculture and reduce dependence on chemical-based farming practices in the ecologically sensitive Himalayan region.
Experts associated with the training noted that organic and natural farming methods are increasingly gaining relevance in high-altitude areas like Ladakh, where environmental conservation and sustainable use of natural resources remain closely linked to long-term agricultural viability.
