Basic ground is being prepared to boost agriculture sector in Kargil district. A 3- Days training cum awareness Programme for progressive farmers on Orchard management organised by the Department of Science and Technology, Kargil in collaboration with Horticulture Department begins on February 16 at Horticulture Complex Baroo, Kargil. 

Executive Councillor for Health, LAHDC, Kargil Mohsin Ali inaugurated the 3 days event. 

Deputy Commissioner and CEO, LAHDC, Kargil Alhaj Kacho Hassan Khan was the chief guest on the occasion. 

It was attended by 150 progressive farmers from the three horticulture zones of Kargil District viz; Chiktan, Batalik and Kargil.

Mohsin Ali appreciated the role in organising such modern technology based awareness sessions for the orchardists which will enhance the horticulture yield resulting into the economic growth of the farmer community in rural areas.

He further said that such events assume importance since a major portion of Kargil falls under the fruit production zone which is directly connected to the livelihood of the local populace. 

Kacho Hassan Khan announced that considering the economic value of apricots for the farmers, funds for the establishment of 2 solar dryers will be kept in the upcoming District Plan.

Horticulture experts Shabir Hussain Ph.D. Fruit Science, SKUAST, Kashmir, Ali Raza, Chief Horticulture Officer, Kargil, besides, In charge Horticulture Development Officers Ghulam Ali, Ali Muhammad and Muhammad Mussa enlightened the orchardists about the various ways and means of orchard management.

Muhammad Ali Tak District Coordinator, Science and Technology, Department, Kargil informed that the training cum awareness programme is being planned well in advance before the onset of the blossoming season of fruits. 

He said that it was to ensure that the orchardists are enlightened about the different scientific and technological ways and means to be adopted well before the ripening season to see a productive and quality yield. 

Chief Horticulture Officer, Kargil Ali Raza assured that the best possible practical scientific inputs shall be delivered to the progressive farmers especially in terms of the planting of saplings, grafting, budding, training and pruning, nutrient management, integrated pest management and post harvest management. 

While terming exposure and awareness as prerequisites for the development of Horticulture sector, he urged upon the Hill Council, Kargil to allocate special funds in this regard.

 

He also informed that the two departments are planning to organise more events in future like the weeklong certificate course on fruit processing in June and July this year wherein practical training will be imparted to the unemployed youth in the production of jam, jelly, chocolates, tomato puree. 

Among others who were present on the occasion included Councillor Choskore Sheikh Muhammad Raza, Councillor Town Haji Muhammad Abbass.