Leh, Nov 09: Secretary Horticulture, Union Territory of Ladakh, Ravinder Kumar inspected places/orchard areas and took stock of developmental activities undertaken by the Department of Horticulture, Union Territory of Ladakh.

Director Horticulture, UT Ladakh, Chief Horticulture Officer, Leh, Horticulture Development Officer, Leh and other officials accompanied him during the field visit.

While inspecting the processing unit established by Tundup Tsering in Phyang village, the Secretary was briefed about the various aspects of the project activity. It was given to his understanding that the processing unit was established during 2021-22 under LAHDC – 33 Subsidy and the amount as per the provision was provided to the beneficiary by the Department.

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Secretary also inspected the Apple Orchard with a facility of micro-irrigation, bore-well etc, established by the beneficiary with the help of the Department of Horticulture.

Interacting with the beneficiary, Secretary Ravinder Kumar urged him to make best use of the facilities and technical know-how to secure good economic returns and at the same time serve as a demonstration site for the farming community to follow.            

Secretary Ravinder Kumar also inspected the Orchard area in Saboo Village. During the course of his field visit, he reiterated the significance of use of technical knowledge for quality production of the fruit crops and urged upon the orchardist to liaise with the officials and officers of the Department.

While inspecting the orchard area of Sonam Nurboo, a progressive orchardist in the area, the Secretary had a detailed interaction with him on fruit cultivation and related issues.

The orchardist informed the Secretary that his produce has been fetching good returns as there is greater demand for locally produced fruits in the local market.

It was given to his understanding that the orchardist has been provided with facilities like water storage tank, tools implements, borewell, etc for better output.

Interacting with the officials of the Department, Secretary urged upon working for declaring the Apple fruit of Union Territory as an Organic commodity, enabling the farmers to get better prices of their produce and to raise their economy.