ITC Mission Sunehra Kal Under CSA Project Brings New Hope to Farmers at Arithang Chongrang Block, West Sikkim
Gyalshing,May14:
A significant agricultural development programme was successfully organized at Arithang Chongrang Block, West Sikkim under the CSA (Climate Smart Agriculture) Project, funded by ITC Mission Sunehra Kal and implemented by RGVN (Rashtriya Gramin Vikas Nidhi), Guwahati, Assam. The programme focused on the distribution of high-quality Lakadong Turmeric and improved Ginger seeds to farmers with the aim of strengthening sustainable livelihood opportunities and promoting climate-resilient farming practices in the region.
The programme was conducted under the banner of the Improved Agricultural Practices and Agriculture Development Programme – Farmer Field School for Turmeric & Ginger. Farmers from different villages under Arithang Chongrang Block participated actively and showed great enthusiasm towards adopting improved agricultural methods and high-value crop cultivation.
The successful implementation of the programme was led by Project Coordinators Shanti Limboo and Ramesh Poudeyal, whose dedicated fieldwork and continuous guidance played an important role in mobilizing farmers and creating awareness about climate-smart agriculture. Their efforts in reaching rural farming communities and supporting farmers at the grassroots level were highly appreciated by the participants and local residents.
Lakadong turmeric, known for its exceptionally high curcumin content and premium quality, is gaining recognition across the country as a profitable agricultural crop. Through the distribution of Lakadong turmeric planting materials and improved ginger seeds, the project aims to encourage farmers of West Sikkim to adopt sustainable and income-generating agricultural practices. The initiative is expected to improve both productivity and economic conditions of farming households in the area.
During the programme, awareness sessions and interactive discussions were held with farmers on improved cultivation practices, organic farming methods, soil health management, disease and pest control, and post-harvest handling techniques. Farmers were encouraged to embrace scientific and environmentally sustainable agricultural practices to ensure long-term productivity and soil conservation.
Officials and field staff associated with the CSA Project highlighted the importance of climate-smart agriculture in today’s changing environmental conditions. They emphasized that projects like these are essential in empowering farmers, increasing agricultural resilience, and promoting self-reliance among rural communities.
The programme also reflected the strong commitment of ITC Mission Sunehra Kal and RGVN towards rural development and agricultural sustainability in Sikkim. By supporting farmers with quality seeds, technical guidance, and awareness programmes, the initiative seeks to create a positive transformation in the agricultural sector of the region.
Farmers attending the programme expressed happiness and gratitude for the support extended through the project. Many shared that such programmes motivate them to continue farming with renewed confidence and hope for better income opportunities in the future.
The CSA Project continues to make a meaningful impact across different rural areas through farmer registration drives, awareness campaigns, training programmes, and field-level support activities. The distribution programme at Arithang Chongrang Block marks another important milestone towards building a stronger, resilient, and prosperous farming community in West Sikkim.
This initiative stands as a powerful example of how collaborative efforts between development organizations and local farming communities can bring sustainable change at the grassroots level and pave the way for a brighter agricultural future in Sikkim.
