Ladakhi agriculture is primarily subsistent in nature but unique and representative of the Tibetan plateau farming system. Until recently, Ladakhis grew and consumed their own grains, cereals and vegetables, prepared their own manure, seeds and other agricultural inputs, reared their own animals and prepared their own farms in a well integrated, coordinated and balanced form of agriculture that has evolved in response to agro-climatic conditions. However, as Ladakh opens up to the world, its ancient and reliable agricultural system faces disruption and agriculture takes a back seat to fast growing sectors like tourism and related service sector. Agriculture is difficult at high altitude and arid climate like Ladakh. Nevertheless, glacial-fed rivers are diverted repeatedly for irrigation through stone-built terraces.

LEDeG is actively engaged in the introduction and diversification of agriculture in remote villages of Leh and Kargil district. In the relatively developed areas of Ladakh, LEDeG is engaged in value addition program like production of Jam, jelly, drying vegetable for winter consumption, improved packaging etc. While in the remote areas, LEDeG focus is on diversification of production base through introduction of improved seed, training on vegetable production for self consumption, awareness program about seed, pesticides, fertilizer etc. In 12 villages of Nyoma block, under watershed program, integrated development program is being implemented since 1995. This program includes wasteland management, water conservation, seed preservation, introduction of new variety of seeds and domestic animal development.

Value Addition For Agricultural Produce
The focus of agriculture team of LEDeG is on value addition of agricultural produce of Ladakh through introduction of various appropriate technologies. The two natural resources available in abundance in the remote regions of Ladakh are apricot and seabuckthorn, both indigenous to the area, However, only the raw products of apricot and seabuckthorn are presently marketed, SO the effort of the agricultural section during the last few years was on carrying out a value-addition exercise by making jam, jelly and juice with improved packaging and product features.