MoU signed to grow aromatic crops in Leh

Our Correspondent

Palampur, September 19

The Ladakh Farmers and Producers Cooperative Limited (LFPCL) has signed an MoU with the CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology to cultivate high-value aromatic crops and establish a processing unit at Ranbirpura village of Thiksay in Leh.

The CSIR-IHBT has recognised Leh-Ladakh areas for cultivation of aromatic crops. An awareness-cum-training programme to promote cultivation was organised.

Dr Sanjay Kumar, Director, CSIR-IHBT, said: “The CSIR had started “aroma mission” programme in July 2017 to promote aromatic crops and bring additional area of 5,500 hectare under its cultivation for the socio-economic uplift of rural masses and to generate employment for farming community.” Seeds of wild marigold, chamomile and saffron were distributed among farmers along with complete information package of agro-technologies, which would help them in proper cultivation of these crops.

Dr ML Mantoo, CEO, LFPCL, and former adviser to the Ministry of Rural Development, said the partnership would allow them to work in collaboration with premier CSIR institute in cultivating aromatic crops in lager areas of Leh and Ladakh region and to provide maximum benefit to farmers. Dr Rakesh Kumar, principal scientist, CSIR-IHBT, said Leh-Ladakh was suitable for cultivation of high-value aromatic crops where unique aroma compound could be produced, which was in huge demand in the international market of perfumes and essential oils.