The Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) Kargil has initiated a major shift toward sustainable agriculture, setting a target to procure 75% organic fertilizers for the upcoming agricultural season. The decision was taken during a meeting chaired by Executive Councillor (EC) for Cooperative, Er. Punchok Tashi, with senior officials of the Cooperative Department.
During the review, EC Tashi highlighted that LAHDC Kargil aims to gradually reduce the district’s reliance on chemical fertilizers while strengthening organic farming practices. He cautioned that a sudden reduction in chemical inputs could adversely affect crop productivity and soil health. To avoid disruption, the transition will be introduced in phases, ensuring that farmers are fully supported.
For the current year, the Council has decided that only 25% of the fertilizer requirement will be met through chemical inputs, with the remaining 75% sourced from organic alternatives. If a complete shift is not immediately feasible, EC Tashi directed officials to focus on achieving at least the 75% organic procurement benchmark.
The Executive Councillor said the promotion of organic methods would help restore soil fertility, improve long-term farm output, and enhance farmers’ income. He also urged the Cooperative Department to ensure that locally produced inputs and value-added products are made available at cooperative sale centres, thereby supporting local entrepreneurship.
Officials from the Cooperative Department briefed the meeting on the procurement process, noting that fertilizers are sourced exclusively through cooperative societies to ensure transparency and timely supply.
The meeting was attended by Dr. Sarwar Shazad (JKAS), Deputy Registrar of the Cooperative Department Kargil, along with other departmental officials.
