SAST Students gain practical exposure to Cold Arid Farming Technologies at ICAR-CAZRI Leh

LEH: Twenty-one first-year Bachelor of Science (Agriculture) students from the School of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SAST), University of Ladakh, received hands-on exposure to cold arid farming technologies during an educational visit to the ICAR-Central Arid Zone Research Institute (CAZRI), Regional Research Station (RRS), Stakna, under the DIKSHA Programme, aimed at strengthening practical learning in sustainable agriculture.

Accompanied by four faculty members, the students interacted with scientists and technical experts before touring research farms and demonstration units, where they were introduced to technologies and farming practices tailored to the unique agro-climatic conditions of Ladakh.

Addressing the participants, Dr. H.L. Kushwaha, Principal Scientist and Head of ICAR-CAZRI, RRS Leh, outlined the institute’s ongoing research to promote sustainable agriculture in the cold arid ecosystem. He also briefed the students on career opportunities in agricultural sciences and allied sectors, encouraging them to pursue research and innovation in the field.

During the field sessions, students visited the fruit germplasm repository, where Jigmat Stanzin and Ankesh Kumar demonstrated the cultivation and management of apple, pear and apricot varieties suited to the region. Dr. Changchuk Lamo, Scientist, explained the application of solar dryer technology in value addition and post-harvest management of horticultural produce, while Rigzin Dorje demonstrated protected cultivation techniques for vegetable production under greenhouse conditions.

The exposure programme also included demonstrations at the crop cafeteria, where Mohd. Raza introduced students to different field crops under evaluation at the research station. Dr. Akash R. Chichaghare showcased cultivation techniques for watermelon and summer squash using mulch polythene and low-tunnel greenhouse technology, highlighting methods to enhance crop productivity under Ladakh’s harsh climatic conditions.

The visiting group comprised 21 students accompanied by Assistant Professors Dr. Stanzin Yangsdon, Dr. Padma Angmo, Dr. Stanzin Diskit and Dr. Meniari Taku, representing the disciplines of Extension Education, Soil Science, Plant Pathology, and Genetics and Plant Breeding.

The faculty members commended ICAR-CAZRI for providing experiential learning opportunities, observing that such field-based exposure complements classroom teaching and equips students with a deeper understanding of cold arid agriculture, emerging farming technologies and sustainable cultivation practices relevant to Ladakh.