Gangtok, August 26 (IPR): The Institute for Transforming Sikkim (ITS) convened a meeting with the Horticulture Department, Progressive Farmers, Bamboo Artisan, Entrepreneurs and FPOs at the conference hall of Tashiling Secretariat, today.
The meeting was held under the chairmanship of Vice Chairman, ITS, Mr CP Sharma, to deliberate on the department's long-term vision, ongoing initiatives and strategic priorities for the preparation of the Sikkim@2047 Vision Document.
While addressing the gathering, Vice Chairman, ITS, Mr CP Sharma outlined the objective of the consultative exercise. He informed that the outcome of the meeting would be a proposal to the State Government for the benefit of the farming community. He also informed that the meeting formed part of a series of departmental consultations being undertaken by ITS to prepare a comprehensive vision framework for Sikkim@2047, bridge the gap between the department and the government, propose necessary action to the State Government and place forth the queries of the department to the State Government.
Chairman, Farmers' Welfare Board,Mr Padam Prasad Sharma, discussed the Agriculture and Agro-Industrial Policy, which is yet to be formed, conditions of agricultural land, welfare of farmers and protection policy, and profit in production at the global market. He apprised the meeting of the need to organise a conference with agricultural experts, promote horticulture in the state, and encourage the preservation of local indigenous crops.
In his address, Member, ITS,Mr Bharat Chandra Basistha, highlighted the takeaways and queries from the past meeting and stressed that the department should focus on need-oriented work rather than focusing only on scheme-oriented work. He also highlighted the role of the Agriculture Regulatory Officer, the National Bamboo Mission and horticulture and vegetable crops. He highlighted biotic invasion and suggested solutions to the queries, along with awareness programmes to be conducted. He stressed the importance of the Agriculture Regulatory Officer and the implementation of relevant Acts and regulations.
He further highlighted the various schemes being implemented by the Horticulture Department under the State Budget and grant provisions. Among the major schemes, he specifically mentioned the National Bamboo Mission, Horticulture Mission for North East and Himalayan States (HMNEH), and Krishonnati Yojana, noting that these schemes have a significant reach across the state and benefit farmers and the general public.
In her presentation, Additional Director, Horticulture, Ms Pema Choden Bhutia highlighted the progress report of the Horticulture Department for the financial year 2025-2026 under the MIDH programme, including the allocation of funds under major head components and its achievements.
The meeting also saw the grievances of FPOs being raised and discussed, along with various benefits to be provided and issues related to barren land.The session also addressed issues raised by progressive farmers regarding incentives for farmers and discussed the floriculture scenario in the state, including the adoption of best practices from other states and the challenges faced.
While proposing the Vote of Thanks, Secretary, Planning and Development Department, Mr Tushar Nikhare acknowledged the state’s potential in Horticulture and apprised to brand the state’s products under one brand name.
The meeting was also attended by Members of the Institute for Transforming Sikkim, FPOs, Bamboo Artisan, Entrepreneurs, Progressive Farmers and other dignitaries.
Report from DIO-GANGTOK