Empowering Heeng Cultivation in Kargil: A Workshop Organised by CSIR-IHBT, Palampur
On March 5-6, 2024, the CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (CSIR-IHBT), Palampur, organized a two-day workshop and training program focused on “Heeng Cultivation in Kargil” as part of the “Unnat Bharat Abhiyan.” Ten forward-thinking farmers from Kargil, UT Ladakh, actively participated in this initiative. Throughout the program, participants gained insights into the potential and opportunities of heeng cultivation in the Kargil region, including its climatic requirements, agricultural techniques, and the management of biotic and abiotic stresses, as well as the quality analysis of oleo-gum resin. Practical demonstrations were conducted covering nursery management, field plantation, and tissue culture techniques. Additionally, attendees were introduced to the Kisan Sabha Mobile app for smart farming and had the chance to explore the heeng germplasm resource center and seed production center within the institute premises.
Dr. Sudesh Kumar Yadav, Director of CSIR-IHBT, Palampur, concluded the session by engaging with the farmers and gathering their feedback. He emphasized the pivotal role of biotechnological tools, such as plant tissue culture, in scaling up the propagation of planting material to ensure sustainable cultivation and production of heeng nationwide. Dr. Yadav motivated the farmers to adopt heeng cultivation practices sustainably on their unused land, highlighting its potential to positively impact the country’s heeng production. Participation certificates were also distributed to the farmers as a token of appreciation for their involvement.
