A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed this week 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.
- 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.
Source: ladakh.gov.in