A training program on-farm demonstration under ATMA was given to 25 farmers on December 24 at Animal Husbandry Poultry Farm. They were informed about various government schemes and how to avail. 

Mineral mixtures were also distributed among the trainers and a brief presentation was made on its usage.

Gyal P. Wangyal, Deputy Chairman was the chief guest on the occasion.

Over 100 chicks were given to each five beneficiaries selected by Rural Development Department under RURBAN scheme in Choglamsar and Spituk. The Animal Husbandry Department also gave ₹ 30,000 to the beneficiaries to built poultry houses. 

Gyal P Wangyal also visited Cattle Breeding and Research Farm accompanied by Dr. Mohd Iqbal, Chief Animal Husbandry Officer, Deepali Khanna, BDO Leh and doctors of Animal Husbandry Department, Leh.

Gyal P Wangyal said, “Tourism today has undoubtedly become one of the major sources of income for Ladakh but we need to base our livelihood on the sustainable land-based economy for a secure and sustainable source of income.” 

He said that the Council is looking into ways to bring farmers closer to the poultry sector and to support them in earning a good income and compete equally with outsiders.

He urged the farmers to take full benefit of loan schemes and different other departmental schemes. Also, appreciated the efforts made by the department for making record distribution of 40,000 chicks to farmers this year. 

Dr. Mohd Iqbal, Chief Animal Husbandry Officer speaking on the occasion appraised the gathering about the training under ATMA, problems they will face and how to ensure quality rearing of hens and their medication aspect. 

He informed that efforts are on to make feed mill installed and functional in the coming season that will enable the department to provide good quality poultry feed to farmers. also, spoke about the 60% Poultry Venture Capital Fund loan subsidy under NABARD and National Livestock Mission and urged the farmers to avail loan to extend their poultry business. 
 
Deepali Khanna, BDO Leh said that the distribution of chicks to farmers in Choglamsar and Spituk is a convergence between Rural Development Department and Animal Husbandry Department under RURBAN Mission. The objective is to generate employment and livelihood at the local level. She also informed about the selection of beneficiaries through gram sabha and urged the farmers to take benefit of the scheme.