Kargil: Agriculture Department Kargil Thursday celebrated World Soil Day with great enthusiasm at Shakar village in Chiktan Sub Division, focusing on raising awareness about the critical role of soil in sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation.
The event highlighted this year’s theme, “Caring for Soils: Measure, Monitor, Manage,” and included a variety of programs aimed at empowering farmers.
An awareness camp specifically organized for women farmers underscored the importance of soil health for sustainable agriculture.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Agriculture Officer Kargil, Ashiq Hussain Basarat, emphasized the importance of transitioning to organic farming and reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
He remarked, “Such events play a crucial role in improving agricultural productivity, particularly in the challenging terrain of Kargil.”
The Chief Agriculture Officer further stated, “Healthy soil is the backbone of agriculture and the key to achieving food security and sustainability in the region. Such events help educate and empower our farmers.”
He also highlighted the critical role of soil in sustaining life and stressed the urgent need for the sustainable soil management practices to ensure food security and biodiversity.
The program also included workshops conducted by experts from the Agriculture Department. Topics covered included soil sampling techniques, mushroom production, organic farming practices, and the importance of adopting natural farming methods.
Farmers were introduced to departmental schemes, modern technologies as well as traditional techniques for soil conservation, aimed at protecting soil fertility for future generations.
Fatima, a resident of Shakar, was awarded the title of Best Vegetable Grower in the area under the ATMA Scheme.
Other dignitaries present on the occasion were Mohd Iqbal, Deputy Director Command Area Development Department Kargil, Razia Banoo, State Nodal Officer PM Kisan, Mohd Hussain Sub Divisional Agriculture Officer Kargil, Mohd Abdullah Agriculture Extension Officer Kargil A and Mohd Ishaq AEO Chiktan.
The event concluded with a pledge by farmers to adopt sustainable soil management practices and empower them with valuable insights into their land’s nutrient requirements.
