Government of Sikkim
Inauguration of Farm School on Integrated Organic Farming Systems (IOFS) under ATMA Gangtok during Khet Bachao Abhiyan (Rabi Campaign) at Rautey Rumtek, Gangtok District, Sikkim
On 29th October 2026, the Khet Bachao Abhiyan (Rabi Campaign) was conducted at Kagyud Gumpa, 14-Rautey Rumtek, Ranka Block, Gangtok District, Sikkim. The programme was organised by the Department of Agriculture, Gangtok, in collaboration with ICAR-KVK East Sikkim, Ranipool, with the objective of promoting improved agricultural practices and creating awareness among farmers about scientific technologies for successful Rabi crop cultivation. The programme also marked the inauguration of a Farm School on Integrated Organic Farming Systems (IOFS) under ATMA Gangtok to promote sustainable and integrated farming practices among farmers.
The programme was attended by Shri Sonam Tsh. Bhutia, Panchayat President; Shri Bharat Sharma, Deputy Director (Agriculture); Mrs. Usha Tamang, Deputy Director (Horticulture); Boniface Lepcha, Subject Matter Specialist (Horticulture), ICAR-KVK East Sikkim, Ranipool; Mrs. Anjana Subba, Horticulture Inspector; Shri Durga Prasad Chettri, Block Officer (Fisheries); Mrs. Tshering Bhutia, Livestock Inspector (Animal Husbandry); Ms. Geeta Sharma, Block Technology Manager (BTM), ATMA, Ranka Block; and Mrs. Peden Bhutia, Branch Manager, State Bank of India, Rumtek, along with other agricultural field functionaries.
A total of 47 enthusiastic and progressive farmers, comprising 23 male and 24 female participants, actively participated in the programme. Experts from various line departments shared their technical knowledge and field-level experiences, focusing on improved agricultural practices, crop management, and the adoption of suitable technologies for Rabi season cultivation. The inauguration of the Farm School on IOFS is expected to facilitate continuous farmer learning, promote the efficient integration of different farming components, and encourage the adoption of environmentally sustainable agricultural practices.
The programme also provided a valuable platform for interaction among farmers, agricultural experts, financial institutions, and representatives of line departments. The discussions helped farmers gain technical knowledge, understand scientific interventions, and identify appropriate solutions to field-level agricultural challenges.
The programme concluded with an emphasis on the adoption of improved agricultural technologies, promotion of Integrated Organic Farming Systems, and strengthening of coordination among farmers and relevant departments to enhance agricultural productivity, ensure sustainability, and improve farmers' livelihoods in the region.
