Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, RK Mathur met Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh and discussed about developing an appropriate technology for harvesting Sea Buckthorn berries and methods to promote commercial cultivation of the berries in Ladakh.

Lieutenant Governor spoke of the enormous scope for entrepreneurs in the sector as the plant can be used for producing more than 100 varieties of products. Deliberations were also held on engaging Self Help Groups (SHGs) in the said sector for generating livelihood opportunities.   

He also discussed about the need for zinc fortification for the Pashmina goats of Changthang region, so as to cater to their dietary requirements to treat skin diseases observed in the population due to zinc deficiency, as projected by a study conducted by Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).

Development of a leather industry to utilize the naturally available hide was also discussed in the presence of Dr. Shekhar C. Mande, Director General of CSIR. LG Mathur appreciated CSIR who are working in Ladakh through six of their labs.

Endeavors in the field of Geo-thermal were also discussed with the Union Minister, in addition to initiating pilots for harvesting Tulip flower bulbs for export purposes, as Ladakh was found to possess the ideal geographical characteristics for planting such bulbs.

Discussing efforts being made regarding development of the Dark Sky Sanctuary at Hanle, Lieutenant Governor stated that the UT Administration is in the process of arranging requirements such as lampshades, dark curtains, etc and requested for Indian Institute of Astrophysics’ (IIA) assistance in procurement of telescopes with integrated Wi-Fi and setting up of mobile and static planetariums. Training of local entrepreneurs for operating the devices/equipment was also discussed.

The Lieutenant Governor discussed fixation of cadre strength for the three All India Services in Ladakh along with the creation of subordinate services cadres with the Minister of the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), while expressing gratitude for granting a centre for Civil Services examination at Leh.