Moorang, Kinnaur: In a powerful demonstration of harmony between nature and innovation, the high-altitude village of Moorang in Kinnaur emerged as a model for sustainable Himalayan agriculture. As part of the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan-2025, the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Kinnaur, under Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, organized a day-long training and awareness camp focused on hi-tech and eco-friendly fruit cultivation techniques.
Held amid the beautiful yet tough terrain of Moorang, the event drew active participation from apple growers, school students, local Gram Panchayat members, and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) officers and jawans from nearby camps. The program was conducted in coordination with ITBP Deputy Commandant Ankush, who underscored the importance of synergy between civilian communities and security forces in strengthening rural development in border regions.
Dr. Pramod Sharma, Associate Director & Head KVK Kinnaur, highlighted the critical need to adopt natural farming in fragile mountain ecosystems to protect biodiversity and sustain livelihoods. Commending local efforts, he shared that over 50 farmers in the area have embraced natural farming practices consistently. Dr. Budhi Ram Negi, Entomologist, apprised the innovative Mud House Bee Technology, a sustainable method that supports pollination and honey production while minimizing environmental impact. Complementing this, Dr. D.P. Bhandari, Plant Pathologist, presented techniques for managing apple orchard diseases without excessive chemical use. Representatives from the Horticulture Department and ATMA also addressed the gathering, informing farmers about various government schemes and technical support available for advancing horticulture in the region.
Speaking at the event, Gram Panchayat Pradhan Anup Negi lauded the village’s commitment to sustainable practices and said that farmers were now caretakers of the land. He added that Natural farming had rejuvenated the soil, reduced dependency on external inputs and strengthened the local economy. Apple grower Lokender, who has practiced natural farming for over a decade, shared that these methods have enhanced soil health, boosted fruit quality and significantly lowered input costs.
The program concluded on an inspiring note, with fruit growers and ITBP personnel jointly pledging to promote eco-conscious agriculture and transform Moorang into a model Himalayan village for sustainable, self-reliant farming in the years ahead.
