The Command Area Development Department (CAD) Programme in Kargil, Ladakh is a crucial initiative aimed at improving irrigation efficiency, promoting sustainable agriculture, and enhancing the livelihoods of farmers in this high-altitude, cold desert region. Implemented under the Command Area Development and Water Management (CADWM) Programme of the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India, it focuses on maximizing the benefits of irrigation projects through proper water distribution and on-farm development.
Kargil’s terrain presents unique challenges such as scarce water resources, short growing seasons, and rugged topography, which make efficient water management essential. The CAD sector in Kargil works to address these challenges by developing new command area created by the irrigation Department with construction of land development works, construction of distributary field channels, renovation of existing field canals, promoting micro-irrigation systems, and training farmers in modern water management practices.
Command Area Development Department works are implemented in coordination with local bodies like the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), and the Department of Agriculture. Its overall goal is to ensure equitable water distribution, improve agricultural productivity, and support the region’s transition to climate-resilient and resource-efficient farming systems.
The Command Area Development (CAD) sector in Kargil, Ladakh refers to civilian irrigation and land development initiatives, especially under the Command Area Development Programme (CADP) of the Government of India.
The Command Area Development (CAD) sector in Kargil, Ladakh plays a crucial role in improving irrigation efficiency, land productivity, and sustainable agriculture in this high-altitude, water-scarce region. The aims and objectives of the CAD sector here are aligned with the broader goals of the Command Area Development and Water Management (CADWM) Programme under the Ministry of Jal Shakti but are also tailored to the local agro-climatic conditions of Ladakh.
Command Area Development Sub Divisions, Zones of Kargil District
| S.No | Sub Division | Zones |
| 1 | Kargil | Sankoo/TSG/ Drass |
| Shakar Chicktan | Chiktan/Shargole | |
| Kargil | Kargil | |
| Zanskar | Taisuru/Zanskar |
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
- Enhance Agricultural Productivity:-Increase the yield of crops by ensuring efficient and timely irrigation.
- Ensure Efficient Water Use:-Minimize water losses in canals and fields through proper channel design and lining.
- Promote Sustainable Irrigation Practices:-Encourage water management methods
Suitable for cold desert regions.
- Support Livelihoods of Local Farmers:-Improve rural income by making agriculture
More viable and reliable.
- Improve Irrigation Efficiency:-Construct and maintain field channels, water courses, and small dams. Lining of canals and field drains to prevent water seepage.
- Implement On-Farm Development (OFD) Works:-Land leveling, terracing and field shaping to ensure uniform water distribution. Improve accessibility of irrigation to terraced andsloped lands.
- Land Reclamation and Soil Health:-Reclaim barren or degraded land through
Irrigation and soil treatment.
