Leh, May 16 :The Indian Council of Agricultural Research–Central Arid Zone Research Institute (ICAR-CAZRI), Regional Research Station, Stakna, Leh on Friday organised an outreach programme at Baldes village under the Tribal Sub Plan (TSP), distributing black mulch sheets among farmers to encourage scientific vegetable cultivation and moisture conservation practices suited to Ladakh’s cold arid conditions.
A total of 26 farmers participated in the programme, during which 13 rolls of black mulch sheets were distributed among beneficiaries as part of efforts to promote sustainable and climate-responsive agricultural practices in the region.
Addressing the farmers, Dr. Mohd. Ali, Scientist at ICAR-CAZRI, explained the role of mulching in improving vegetable cultivation under cold desert conditions. He highlighted various types of mulches and elaborated on their practical applications in agriculture, stating that black mulch helps conserve soil moisture, suppress weed growth, regulate soil temperature and improve overall crop productivity.
The programme also focused on strengthening awareness among farmers regarding scientific cultivation methods aimed at enhancing agricultural resilience in water-scarce and low-temperature environments characteristic of Ladakh.
Dr. A.R. Chichaghare briefed participants about the research and extension activities being undertaken by the Regional Research Station, Leh to support sustainable agricultural development in the cold desert ecosystem. He said the institute has been working on farmer-oriented technologies and adaptive agricultural practices to improve productivity and livelihood opportunities in remote rural areas.
During the interactive session, farmers raised concerns related to vegetable cultivation and sought technical guidance from scientists on issues including moisture management, crop protection and improved farming techniques. The scientists responded with practical recommendations tailored to local climatic conditions.
Mohd. Raza thanked the villagers for their active participation and appreciated the growing interest among farmers towards the adoption of improved agricultural technologies.
Farmers from Baldes village, meanwhile, acknowledged the continued support extended by ICAR-CAZRI and said such outreach programmes have helped strengthen awareness about scientific farming practices and modern agricultural interventions suitable for the cold arid region of Ladakh.
