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Kargil, September 17, 2026: A major push towards technology-driven agriculture in Ladakh took shape in Kargil as the 8th and 22nd Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) Meetings of KVK Kargil-I and Kargil-II (Zanskar) were held at KVK Kargil-II.
The meetings were chaired by University of Ladakh Vice Chancellor Prof. Saket Kushawaha and conducted in hybrid mode, bringing together scientists, technical experts, line department officials and farmer representatives.
The deliberations focused on technology standardisation, validation and upscaling of agricultural practices suited to Ladakh’s unique agro-climatic conditions.
Presentations on the 2025–26 progress and annual reports of both KVKs highlighted major activities, achievements and interventions undertaken during the year.
Five farmer representatives from different parts of Kargil shared ground-level concerns and called for more skill-development and capacity-building programmes covering livestock diseases, insect pests, crop production technologies and other local agricultural challenges.
Officials from various departments also suggested areas for field experimentation, technology demonstrations and farmer training based on local requirements.
Scientists and academic experts, including Dr. Faizan Ahmad, Dean, School of Agriculture, Horticulture & Forestry, Kargil, and Dr. Maheswar, Dean, School of Agriculture Sciences & Technology, Leh, joined virtually and provided scientific inputs on suitable technologies for the region.
Prof. Saket Kushawaha stressed stronger coordination among KVKs, farmers, line departments and research institutions, while calling for technologies from across India to be assessed and adapted to Ladakh’s distinctive conditions.
Kisan Mela Showcases Kargil’s Farming Potential
The forenoon session also featured a Kisan Mela-cum-exhibition at KVK Kargil-II, where farmers showcased their farm produce and highlighted the growing potential for vegetable cultivation and agricultural diversification in the region.
Scientists and officials visited the stalls and interacted with farmers, appreciating efforts to promote improved production practices.
As a gesture of appreciation, efficient farm tools were distributed among progressive farmers for their contribution to agricultural development.
The event strengthened the vital link between farmers, scientists and government departments, with the broader focus on taking locally suitable scientific technologies from research institutions to the fields of Kargil and Ladakh.
