AH&VS department Gyalshing district distributes crossbreed sheep to farmers of Yuksam-Tashiding.

Gyalshing, December 11 (IPR): Crossbreed sheep were distributed to beneficiaries of Yuksam-Tashiding constituency during a brief programme held today at Chongrang BAC Hall under Gyalshing District. The event was organised by the Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services (AH&VS) Department, Gyalshing District, under the Rainfed Area Development (RAD) programme.

The initiative aims to promote integrated farming systems (IFS) by providing livestock support to rural households, thereby enhancing livelihood opportunities, strengthening climate resilience, and diversifying farm income. Under the scheme, 20-farmers from various villages received one male and one female sheep each as part of the livelihood enhancement component.

Zilla Adhakshya Gyalshing Mr Ds Limboo graced the programme as the Chief Guest, accompanied by BDO Chongrang BAC Ms Geeta Kumari Gurung.

Also present were Additional Director-cum-District Head, AH&VS Gyalshing district Mr BB Limboo, Joint Director Dr Phurba Lepcha, Veterinary Officer, Tashiding VH Dr Pranisha Chettri, Veterinary Officer Yuksam VH Dr Mikkit Lepcha, Livestock Assistant, Arithang VD Mr Amber Bahadur Biswakarma, Panchayat members and beneficiaries from different villages.

Addressing the gathering, Zilla Adhakshya Mr Ds Limboo urged beneficiaries to explore entrepreneurship in livestock and farming, noting the vast potential the sector holds. He acknowledged the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Prem Singh Tamang (Golay), under whose guidance several welfare initiatives and schemes have been introduced to strengthen the farming sector in the state. He encouraged people to remain grateful for the government’s continued efforts toward making Sikkim a developed and prosperous state. He further assured all possible support from his end to farmers.

In his address, Additional Director Mr BB Limboo emphasised the growing demand for meat products in the state, much of which is still sourced from outside. He briefed beneficiaries about livestock insurance and other departmental support available under the Government of Sikkim. He also highlighted ongoing welfare schemes and initiatives aimed at promoting livestock rearing.

Joint Director Dr Phurba Lepcha explained various components of the RAD programme and highlighted several welfare measures being implemented by the department.

A technical session was conducted by Dr Pranisha Chettri, who provided detailed guidance on scientific sheep rearing, management practices, and technical know-how required for sustainable livestock growth.

The programme concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by Veterinary Officer Dr Mikkit Lepcha.