DC Gyalshing Chairs Orientation Programme on IEIAP under Sikkim INSPIRES Samriddha
Gyalshing, March 6 (IPR):
An orientation programme for Gyalshing district on the Integrated Economic Inclusion Action Plan (IEIAP) under the Sikkim INSPIRES Samriddha initiative was held today at the chamber of the District Collector Gyalshing Mr Tenzing D Denzongpa.
The programme aimed to familiarise district officials with the framework and implementation strategies of the Integrated Economic Inclusion Action Plan, which seeks to promote the economic inclusion of youth and women by creating sustainable employment opportunities and nurturing entrepreneurship in non-farm sectors. Focus areas include enhancing skill development, improving access to finance, strengthening market links and building an inclusive ecosystem involving government agencies, private enterprises and local communities.
A presentation on the objectives, strategies, and proposed interventions under IEIAP was delivered by Technical Support Agent, Ms Priya Shrestha, who briefed participants on the various components and implementation of the initiative.
Key intervention areas proposed for the Gyalshing district include strengthening off-farm value chains, particularly for products such as Turmeric, Ginger, Cardamom, Dalley and Kiwi. Strengthening handicrafts sector with works like Sheep wool, Angora wool, Bamboo Weaving craft etc and Promotion of community-based tourism.
Additional interventions highlighted during the presentation include the promotion of green self-help group (SHG) enterprises producing reusable sanitary products, cotton khadas and degradable cutlery. Skill development initiatives for creative jobs like electrician/plumber/ masonry/ social media content creators, taxi driving for women etc and strengthening the entrepreneurship sector through mentorship and apprenticeship programmes, business development and marketing support. The importance of infrastructure for marketing like SHG marts in strategic places infrastructure and awareness and sensitisation targeting educational institutions for campaigns.
During the presentation, DC Gyalshing shared valuable inputs and suggestions concerning the effective implementation of the initiatives under the IEIAP. Mr Surat Kumar Gurung, ADC (Dev) also shared valuable suggestions regarding the implementation of the discussed initiatives.
The initiative is expected to promote youth enterpreneurs generate employment opportunities, and contribute to strengthening the local enterpreneurs in the district.
The programme was attended by all the members of DIIT IEIAP team.