Leh/Jammu, Oct. 26 -- Lieutenant governor VK Saxena on Sunday declared Ladakh "India's first 100% Organic Union Territory", months after the administration banned the sale, distribution and use of chemical and synthetic fertilisers for agricultural practices.

"This is a moment of immense pride for Ladakh and the entire nation. Our farmers have demonstrated that environmentally responsible agriculture can flourish even in the most challenging geographical conditions. Becoming a fully organic UT is not merely a milestone. It is a commitment to protecting our fragile Himalayan ecosystem, preserving our traditional farming practices and ensuring better livelihoods for our farmers," the LG said.

In a major policy intervention in July, the LG...