World’s Highest Village Welcomes ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’ at Spiti valley
In a remarkable initiative to empower farmers in high-altitude and remote regions, the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Tabo, which operates under the Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni and supported by ICAR ATARI Zone-I , launched the nationwide ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’ from Komic village in Spiti. Located at an altitude of 4,587 meters above sea level, Komic is recognized as the world’s highest village connected by a motorable road.
The outreach programme, which will run from May 29 to June 12, 2025, was inaugurated by Shikha Simtia, Additional Deputy Commissioner. This 15-day campaign aims to take scientific knowledge and government schemes to farmers living in some of the most remote and ecologically sensitive regions of the country. The initiative is part of a larger national effort by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India, to ensure inclusive agricultural development.
During the launch event, Dr. RS. Spehia, Senior Scientist and Head of KVK Tabo, along with KVK scientist Ankita Dhiman and Sujata Negi from ATMA, held interactive sessions with farmers. These discussions covered a wide range of topics, including improved agricultural techniques, the importance of soil testing, new crop varieties suitable for the region, natural farming methods and efficient irrigation practices. Farmers were also informed about various Central and State government schemes designed to support agricultural development.
In her address, Shikha Simtia urged the farming community to adopt innovative agricultural technologies that reduce the pressure on scarce natural resources such as water and soil, helping preserve Spiti valley’s ecosystem. She also encouraged local panchayat representatives to actively engage with the campaign and support the KVK teams by facilitating logistical arrangements and mobilizing farmers from their respective villages. Chhering Paldan, Pradhan of Langza Panchayat, under which Komic village falls, assured full cooperation to the KVK scientists and committed to encouraging farmers to embrace advanced technologies.
The KVK team also visited Tashigang, famous as the world’s highest polling station, where they conducted a similar programme. Farmers in the village shared their problems about pea and barley cultivation, to which the team responded with practical solutions and advice. These inputs will also help inform future research and extension programmes tailored to the specific needs of high-altitude farming.
Through this outreach effort, the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan is ensuring that scientific farming practices, technical knowledge, and welfare schemes reach the farthest corners of the country. The campaign in Spiti symbolizes the commitment to inclusive agricultural progress, sustainability, and the empowerment of farmers in even the most challenging environments.
