On 23rd May 2026, the Department of Horticulture organized a one-day Training-cum-Farmers Awareness Programme at Horticulture Farm Saspol for the farmers of Saspol, Alchi, Likir, Hemis Shukpachan, Gera, Mangu and Ulley villages. More than 100 farmers participated in the programme.
The programme was conducted in the presence of Chief Horticulture Officer Leh, Smt. Kunzang Wangmo, Smt. Tashi Dolma, District Agriculture officer Leh , and Ms. Kunzes Angmo, Zonal Incharge, Saspol.
The primary objective of the programme was to create awareness among farmers regarding the adoption and follow-up of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the cultivation of quality fruit crops during the coming season. Farmers were advised to adopt Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices and ensure timely irrigation of orchards to produce high-quality and marketable apricot crops.
The programme also emphasized enhancing farmers’ income through the export of premium-quality apricot fruits to national and international markets under agreements signed with export companies.
On the occasion, the department conducted demonstrations on the spraying of biopesticides and foliar nutrients, and spray pumps along with biopesticides were distributed among the participating farmers.
While addressing the gathering, Chief Horticulture Officer Leh, Smt. Kunzang Wangmo, urged the farmers to strictly follow the recommended orchard management schedules to ensure the production of quality marketable produce. Smt. Tashi Dolma highlighted the importance of organically grown fruits in securing better income and higher market value. She also encouraged farmers to register under NPOP certification norms to facilitate the export of organically certified fruits.
During the programme, Dr. Sonam Dawa, Horticulture Development Officer Leh, spread awareness among the farmers regarding various departmental schemes and programmes aimed at improving horticulture production and enhancing farmers’ livelihoods. He encouraged farmers to avail maximum benefits from the schemes implemented by the department.
At the conclusion of the programme, the department appreciated the active participation and cooperation of the farmers and reiterated its commitment towards strengthening the horticulture sector in the region.
