Executive Councilor, Er Punchok Tashi, chaired a significant meeting on July 24 at the Council Secretariat focused on halting the use of chemical fertilizers in Kargil district and promoting cash crops in Zanskar.

The meeting discussed the adverse effects of chemical fertilizers on soil health and the environment, and explored alternatives to these fertilizers. EC Tashi welcomed attendees and emphasized the meeting's purpose: addressing the impact of chemical fertilizers on soil health, water quality, and local biodiversity, as well as environmental concerns such as pollution and long-term sustainability issues.

In line with the Chairman/CEC of LAHDC Kargil's vision and the UT administration's goal of declaring Ladakh organic by 2025, EC Tashi proposed a district-wide ban on chemical fertilizers, stressing the importance of sustainable agricultural practices. The proposal received unanimous support from all attendees, leading to the Chairman/Chief Executive Councilor LAHDC Kargil approving a complete ban on chemical fertilizers in the district. Additionally, it was decided to enhance the subsidy on compost fertilizers by up to 90 percent to support farmers in transitioning to organic alternatives.

DRC Kargil was requested to take action on this matter. EC Tashi also invited input from the Chief Agriculture Officer Kargil, suggesting that the Zanskar Sub Division be prioritized for green pea and potato cultivation on a commercial basis, leveraging technological interventions from the Agriculture Department Kargil due to the ready market for these crops in Lahoul Spiti District.

Furthermore, a proposal was made for a team of Agriculture Officers from Kargil and Zanskar to undertake an exposure cum official visit to the district headquarters of Lahoul Spiti at Kaylong around August 17th.

The meeting was attended by Ashique Hussain Basharat, Chief Agriculture Officer Kargil; Dr. Zakir Hussain, DRC Kargil; and Mohd Hussain HQA to CAO Kargil.