The Department of Agriculture, Kargil, through the Sub-Divisional Agriculture Office Zanskar, organized a Kisan Goshti-cum-Field Day at Atting village in Karsha Block on February 22. The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from farmers, local representatives, and officials from various line departments.

The event was graced by Executive Councillor (Rural Development & Panchayati Raj / Cooperative / FCS&CA / Forest & Wildlife / Information), LAHDC Kargil, Punchok Tashi, as the Chief Guest. He was accompanied by District Agriculture Officer (Extension) Tsering Norboo, Block Medical Officer Zanskar Dr. Tashi, Agriculture Extension Officer-cum-BDO Karsha Tundup Dorjay, along with other officials.

Addressing the gathering, District Agriculture Officer (Extension) Tsering Norboo highlighted the objectives of the programme and raised awareness about flagship schemes of the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, with special emphasis on the National Mission on Edible Oils (NMEO). He informed that Atting revenue village has been adopted under NMEO, with 80 farmers registered under the scheme.

During the programme, Eashy, a progressive farmer from Atting, was designated as the Contact Farmer to strengthen coordination between the farming community and the Agriculture Department. Under NMEO, 1 kg of rapeseed seed was distributed among registered farmers, and the department assured all necessary technical guidance and support for successful implementation.

Agriculture Extension Officer-cum-BDO Karsha Tundup Dorjay briefed farmers about various government schemes, including PM-KISAN, Kisan Credit Card (KCC), Soil Health Card, Ladakh Greenhouse, and other subsidy-based interventions. He encouraged farmers to avail these schemes and emphasized the importance of youth participation in agriculture to make Zanskar sustainable and self-reliant.

As part of the Aspirational Block Programme, the event also marked the observance of World Water Day, highlighting the importance of water conservation and sustainable resource management. The PHE Department conducted on-site water quality testing to ensure safe drinking water for the village.

The Block Medical Officer, along with health workers, organized a day-long health camp at the venue and raised awareness among villagers about health, hygiene, and preventive care.

In his address, Executive Councillor Punchok Tashi shared insights from his exposure visit to Gyameru, Changthang, where strong community participation in agriculture and allied sectors such as animal and sheep husbandry has significantly improved livelihoods. He urged the people of Atting to actively engage in farming and allied activities and assured full government support for farmers’ welfare and development.

He also lauded the efforts of Dawa, a progressive farmer, for successfully running a cheese enterprise under the brand “Omasila Cheese Zanskar,” which has gained recognition across India and abroad. He further appreciated Eashy for establishing a milk cooperative society in Atting. Both Dawa and Eashy were acknowledged for their significant contributions to community development.

The programme concluded with an interactive session, during which farmers shared their experiences and raised queries.