By 
Leh, October 8, 2026: Chief Secretary, UT Ladakh, Shri Ashish Kundra, chaired a meeting to review the outcomes of the recently held Seabuckthorn Conclave and discuss a comprehensive, mission-mode strategy to strengthen seabuckthorn production, harvesting, processing, value addition and marketing in Ladakh.
The meeting reviewed district-wise production and collection, processing capacity, registered processors and outcomes of the conclave. It stressed the need for a coordinated, market-oriented approach covering the entire value chain from village-level harvesting and aggregation to pulping, processing, value addition and marketing.
The Chief Secretary reviewed current-year production and procurement trends and directed an assessment of factors affecting procurement rates. He called for examination of the existing procurement mechanism and variations in rates among buyers to ensure greater transparency and better returns to producers.
Emphasising the economic potential of seabuckthorn, Shri Kundra called for village-wise planning for harvesting, aggregation and marketing. The meeting discussed strengthening local processing units, establishing village-level pulping facilities and exploring joint ventures, public-private partnerships and private investment for expanding processing and value addition within Ladakh.
The Chief Secretary also directed structured engagement with major and potential buyers to understand procurement requirements, buying capacity, pricing and long-term market needs. The initiative aims to expand the buyer base, strengthen market linkages and create sustainable economic opportunities for farmers, aggregators and processors.
The meeting also discussed exploring the feasibility of seabuckthorn cultivation in suitable areas of Nubra, developing a digital platform connecting farmers, aggregators, processors and buyers, and expanding domestic and international markets. Successful models from countries such as Mongolia will also be studied for possible adaptation in Ladakh.
Departments were directed to work in close coordination and prepare a practical roadmap covering production, scientific harvesting, processing, market linkages, investment and value addition, along with awareness among farmers on scientific harvesting, quality standards and market requirements.
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