New Delhi, June 26: A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between Ladakh Skill Development Mission (LSDM) and Indian Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-IARI), Pusa, New Delhi, marking the beginning of collaborative efforts aimed at mutual benefit in agricultural research and education.

The primary objectives of this collaboration include providing exposure and conducting value-added short-term training in Horticulture, Floriculture & Landscaping for students and trainers of Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs)of  Ladakh (Leh/Kargil) at ICAR-IARI. Furthermore, ICAR-IARI will serve as a technical advisor to upgrade the laboratory infrastructure of Horticulture & Floriculture trades at Government ITIs in Leh and Kargil.

Key areas of cooperation outlined in the MoU include, facilitating ‘Applied Research’ initiatives at ITIs focusing on High Altitude Horticulture and Floriculture practices.

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Exploring opportunities for academic and cultural exchanges in teaching, research, and other related activities.

Providing specialized training in Horticulture, Floriculture & Landscaping trades for ITI students and trainers.

Establishing a practical research cell dedicated to high altitude Horticulture, Floriculture & Landscaping trades at ITIs in Leh and Kargil.

The signing ceremony and subsequent discussions on the future roadmap of collaboration were attended by; Ms. Padma Angmo, IIS, Commissioner/Secretary Technical Education & Skill Development Department, Ladakh; Dr. C Viswanathan, Joint Director (Research) ICAR-IARI; Dr. B. S. Tomar, Head and Professor of Vegetable Science Division, ICAR-IARI; Dr. Markandey Singh, Head and Principal Scientist,  Floriculture & Landscaping Division, ICAR-IARI; Dr. O.P. Awasthi, Head and Principal Scientist, Fruits and Horticultural Technology, ICAR-IARI; Dr. Pramod Kumar, Incharge PME, ICAR-IARI; Dr. Murtaza Hasan, Principal Scientist, Centre for Protected Cultivation Technology, ICAR-IARI; Sh. Abied Hussain, Superintendent ITI; and Sh. Thinles Wangchuk, Superintendent ITI Leh.

This collaboration signifies a significant step towards enhancing agricultural education and research capabilities in Ladakh, fostering sustainable development in the region.