A four-day tour to Durbuk block covering the village Satoo, Durbuk Laga, Tharuk and Shachukul was carried out by Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Nyoma (SKUAST-K) from March 28 to 31.

The main aim was to motivate people to grow alfa-alfa/lucern locally known as Ol as a substitute fodder for Eastern Ladakh during lean periods.

Dr. Kunzes Angmo, Scientist, Rangeland/ Ecology spoke about the cultivation practices and the precautions to be taken during drying and storage.  Demonstration on how to grow alfa-alfa in different habitats was shown and seeds of alfa-alfa were also distributed among the farmers.

She stressed upon people to help rangelands to grow in a natural way and save these from degradation and go for rotational grazing. 

Dr. Hanuman Lal Verma, Scientist, Agriculture Extension highlighted the importance of Integrated Farming system (IFS) in the region and urged people to adopt for maximum benefit from the marginal lands in Tharuk village.

Earlier, an awareness programme entitled “Management of infectious diseases of livestock by medication and vaccination” was also organized on March 27 in Tsaga village. A total of 26 farmers were present.

Dr. Mir Nadeem, Scientist, Animal Science enquired about the various health issues and the prevalent diseases among the livestock of the village and suggested the mitigation measures for the same.

He also deliberated upon the importance of dipping and dosing for control of ecto/endo parasites associated with livestock.

Dr. Anwar Hussain, Scientist, Food Technology and Dr. H.L. Verma, Scientist, Agriculture Extension was also present.

Veterinary medicines were distributed free of cost among the livestock owners.

Also, under Tribal Sub Plan, KVK, Nyoma distributed about 62 quintals of potato at Liktsey, Nyoma and Mudh villages March 31.