Prospects of vegetable production in cold arid region of Ladakh, achievement and future strategies

Cold Arid areas are usually confined to high altitudes. Sixteen percent of total land mass is under cold arid zone. Indian cold arid region come under the trans-Himalayan zone. Such regions are confined to Ladakh (J&K), Lahual & Spiti (H.P.) and small pockets in Uttranchal (Niti and Mana Garhwal). Ladakh contitutes 87.4 percent of total cold arid zone of India). It is situated at an elevation of 2550 to 8000m amsl along the valley of river Indus. Intensive sunlight, high evaporation rate, strong winds and fluctuating temperature characterize the general climate. Vegetation is sparse, rains are very rare and most of the land is mountainous desert of rocks, sand & dust. Region has short agriculture season & production of maximum edible biomass is possible only through vegetable cultivation, moreover it plays an important role in balanced diet of human being by providing not only energy rich food but also ensure supply of vital protective nutrients like minerals & vitamins. The region receives abundance sunshine, 300 sunny days per year (2150 kwh per year) even in December the minimum radiation is 4.32 kwh per day. For trapping these natural resources, various types of forcing structures (polyhouse, Ladakhi polyhouse, low tunnel & trench) have been successfully introduced and being popular among the farmers at commercial level also. Vegetable production in Ladakh has great potential, inspite of many restrictions. If the sustainable production of the vegetable to meet the demand of growing population is to be realized then this sector must be given top priority.