The extension of high value aromatic cash crops under CSIR aroma mission was started on Tuesday here.
Prof Mushtaq Ahmad, director extension SKUAST Kashmir, who was the chief guest on the launching ceremony, congratulated the CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu and KVK Kargil for extending the mission to the district.
The function was attended by a large number of farmers, scientists and officers of the Kendra.
While speaking on the occasion the chief guest highlighted the importance of various crops like tagetus minuta, mentha piperata, lavender and other target crops in the mission for socio economic upliftment of the tribal farmers in Kargil, a statement here said.
He impressed upon the participating farmers for adoption of these crops owing to their suitability and economic returns under specific agroclimatic conditions of Kargil and other adjoining areas.
Dr Shahid Rasool, coordinator aroma mission presented in detail the verticals of the mission. He spoke about the avenues and opportunities that can be availed under the mission owing to the economic potential and industrial importance of the different aromatic crops.
Referring to the small cropping window in the district, he said the cultivation of annuals like tagetus minuta, monarda citriodora and perennials like mints and lavender can prove highly remunerative to the farmers.
Later, a demonstration unit of aroma bearing crops at KVK farm was inaugurated.
The participating progressive farmers were enthused with the launching of the mission in Kargil.