NUBRA, SEPT 19: Deputy Commissioner Nubra Mukul Beniwal, has directed concerned departments and stakeholders to ensure scientific and sustainable harvesting of Sea Buckthorn while strengthening its collection, processing and value addition in the region.
Chairing a meeting on the subject, the DC called for the use of suitable harvesting tools, proper handling and transportation of the produce, and capacity building of local collectors.
He also directed that awareness be created at the village level regarding sustainable harvesting, plantation and protection of Sea Buckthorn resources.
The meeting also discussed the establishment of cluster-wise Farmer Producer Organisation (FPO) and cooperative models for organised collection and aggregation of Sea Buckthorn.
The proposed mechanism is aimed at strengthening processing and marketing and improving returns for local growers and collectors.
The Deputy Commissioner stressed the need to develop a sustainable and farmer-centric Sea Buckthorn value chain while ensuring protection of Nubra’s fragile high-altitude ecosystem.
He called for coordinated efforts among government departments, local communities, FPOs, cooperatives, aggregators and processing units for responsible utilisation and long-term conservation of the natural resource.
The meeting was attended by officers from the Horticulture, Agriculture and Cooperative Departments, besides Sea Buckthorn aggregators, local collectors and growers, FPO and cooperative representatives and owners of processing units.
