Around 120 farmers from the different villages of Kargil district participated in the World Soil Health Day celebration on December 6 at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Kargil office, Kurbathang.

Chief Guest of the occasion, Sheikh Ghulam Mehdi, Councilor Minjee highlighted the potential benefits of organic agriculture and an urgent need for soil conservation in the district. 

He also highlighted the role of KVK scientists in upliftment and sustenance of agriculture and allied sectors in the district. He urged the farmers as well as line department officials for strict adherence to the advice of the scientists of KVK for the management of soil health and fertility. 

All the speakers highlighted the importance and need of soil health, soil conservation, and organic agriculture.

Dr. Muhammad Mehdi, Head KVK Kargil urged farmers for in situ conservation of soil microbial diversity by efficient use of organic manures and biofertilizers. 

The KVK scientists stressed on the issues like soil test-based nutrient application, use of biofertilizers, efficient utilization of urban waste (slaughterhouse waste) through microbial decomposition, efficient use of animal urine and litters through vermicomposting, promotion of micro-irrigation for reduction of soil erosion and efficient water utilization, emphasis on crop for every drop type of agricultural practices in cold arid Kargil region and other related aspects.

Future coordination plans between the farmers, line departments and KVK regarding soil health management and sustainable agriculture were also worked out.