Date: 04 February 2026
Stakeholders workshop and farmer-scientific dialogue on Kharif-East Crop Scheme was organized today at Indian Agricultural Research Council, North East Research Complex, Sikkim Center. Honorable Governor of Sikkim Mr. Om Prakash Mathur present as Chief Guest on this occasion.
During this time, District Collector of Gangtok District Mr. Tushar Nikhare, Institute Head Mr. Ashok Kumar along with officers, staff and a large number of farmers were present.
Mr. Governor visited ICAR farm while interacting with scientists first and also planted tree.
The Governor sir inspected one-by-one crops in the farm and got information. The farm had seasonal vegetables and fruits like Rajma, beans etc.
The Governor directed the concerned authorities to research on this while expressing concern over the decline in large cardamom and orange productivity. He urged scientists and officials to take concrete measures in this direction. Also he said farmers should develop initiatives to create interest in agriculture which could directly benefit them.
In his address, the Governor said that farmers play the biggest role in the four pillars of developed India. He urged farmers to maintain the identity of organic Sikkim. Communicating with farmers, they stressed that cooperation would come from different places, but real hard work will be done in the fields. He said the country is moving forward and the role of farmers is very important.
Mr. Governor discussed the activities of Agricultural Science Center and highlighted the importance of Farmer Producing Organization (FPOs). He instructed the concerned officers to develop nurseries by engaging youth to empower them and take agriculture to new heights. He also assured every possible cooperation from Lokbhavan.
Farmers from different areas of the state shared their challenges during the dialogue. Farmers specifically stated that damaging crops by animals is a big problem. At the same time farmers in Jongu region emphasized the need for market to sell their products.
The programme inaugurated the exhibition stall by the Hon'ble Governor, showcasing organic products of Sikkim.
