To promote Juniper tree plantation in the region, one-day training was imparted to the farmers of Sumoor and Khardong village on August 22. The training was organised by Central Arid Zone Research Institute (CAZRI), RRS Leh in collaboration with Himalayan Forest Research Institute (HFRI), Shimla.

Juniper (Shukpa) is a sacred tree for the region and at present, there are very few trees remaining in the region. The species is difficult to raise as it requires at least a year to break the dormancy of the seed. At present, Thuja is planted as juniper and nursery growers from Srinagar and adjoining areas sell the plants in Leh during the month of April-May. 

Dr. SK Chauhan, CAZRI-RRS Leh Head shared detailed activities of the station and the importance of the training with the farmers. He stressed on the small initiatives being taken by the centre, providing good quality high yielding seeds, management techniques, etc. to the selected villages. 

Two scientists from HFRI Shimla, Dr. Sandeep Sharma, and PS Negi elaborated the techniques of growing juniper including seed collection, processing, pre-sowing treatment, management of seedlings, storage of seed, etc. 

Expressing their concerns the farmers interacted freely with the visiting scientists of CAZRI and HFRI on various related issues. The literature on the aspect was also provided including a visit to the village to check the infestation of insect on surviving trees of Juniper.  

CAZRI-RRS Leh assured to arrange good quality seed from HFRI Shimla.

 

Stanzin Landol, Technical Assistant assured that the organization will give every possible technical support to the farmers.