LEH: Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Kavinder Gupta, today said Ladakh is on the path to becoming a model organic Union Territory, with initiatives like the Mission Organic Development Initiative (MODI) laying a strong foundation.
He noted that Ladakh’s minimal use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides already provides a natural advantage for organic farming.
The Lt Governor was addressing the One-Day Kisan Mela-cum-Vegetable and Flower Exhibition 2025, organised under the ATMA scheme by the Department of Agriculture at Eco-Park, Leh market.
He was joined by First Lady Bindu Gupta, Executive Councillor Stanzin Chosphel, Administrative Secretary Bhupesh Chaudhary, Joint Director Agriculture Thinles Dawa, and Director DIHAR Dr. O.P. Chaurasia.
Branding Ladakh’s Unique Organic Identity
Gupta highlighted that Ladakh’s fruits—apples, apricots, and the GI-tagged sea buckthorn and Raktsey Karpo apricot—have brought global recognition. He stressed branding and marketing as crucial for showcasing Ladakh’s unique organic produce in domestic and international markets.
Innovation & Greenhouse Project
Praising the Ladakh Greenhouse project, the LG said it ensures year-round vegetable cultivation, addresses local demand, and supports the Army’s supply needs during harsh winters. Subsidies under the scheme, he said, will promote organic farming, reduce shortages, and create youth employment.
Support Through Central Schemes
Recalling Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s farmer-centric schemes—PM Krishi Sinchai Yojana and PM Fasal Bima Yojana—the LG urged Ladakhi farmers to avail these benefits for irrigation efficiency, crop insurance, and sustainable practices. He also assured that the UT Administration will address farmer concerns, including crop damage due to recent rains.
“Ladakh can not only feed its people sustainably but also emerge as a hub of premium organic produce for the world,” Shri Gupta said.
Stakeholders’ Voices
- Executive Councillor Stanzin Chosphel stressed making Ladakh fully organic under MODI and called for a dedicated market, seed bank, and compensation for rain-hit farmers.
- DIHAR Director Dr. O.P. Chaurasia underlined the export potential of Ladakhi produce and efforts to grow vegetables and fruits year-round.
Earlier, the LG visited stalls showcasing vegetables, fruits, flowers, tools, and techniques, inaugurated organic products, and distributed organic certifications to farmers from several villages.
