As part of the ongoing nationwide initiative, the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan (VKSA) was successfully conducted on its sixth day, June 4, 2025, in West Pendam and Central Pendam Gram Panchayat Units of Duga Block, Pakyong District.

The campaign continues to play a vital role in sensitizing farmers about major government schemes in agriculture and allied sectors, ensuring benefits reach the grassroots level.

The day's program witnessed a combined participation of 334 farmers across both venues, including women, youth, and members of local self-help groups and farmer interest groups.

These events were organized by ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, East Sikkim, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Department of Horticulture, Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services, and Department of Fisheries, Government of Sikkim, and ICAR-NRCO, Pakyong.

At West Pendam, Mrs. Kusum Tamang, Panchayat President of West Pendam, graced the event as the Chief Guest. Several panchayat members attended as Special Guests, extending their support and encouragement to the farming community.

At Central Pendam, Mr. Chopel Bhutia, Block Development Officer (BDO) of Duga Block, graced the event as the Chief Guest. Mrs. Laxmi Dangal, Panchayat President of Central Pendam, attended as the Special Guest, along with other respected panchayat representatives.

The presence of senior officials facilitated interactive discussions between farmers and the administration.

The technical team included Dr. Prakash Sharma, Senior Scientist & Head; Mrs. Anushree Gogoi, Program Officer from ICAR-KVK East Sikkim; Dr. Nikhila Vaagdevi, Scientist, ICAR-NRC Orchids; Mr. J.N. Sharma, Dy. Director, Horticulture; Ms. Tashi Gyamtso Bhutia, ADO; Mr. BO, Fisheries; and Dr. Roja Chettri, Veterinary Officer, AH&VS; Mr. Tashi Bhutia, President, IFFCO.

These officials delivered expert guidance on modern horticultural practices, livestock health management, integrated farming systems, fisheries promotion, and climate-resilient agriculture.

Farmers received on-the-spot assistance for enrolment in key schemes like PM-KISAN, Kisan Credit Card (KCC), PM Fasal Bima Yojana, and Soil Health Card distribution.

Resource material distribution and help desks enabled farmers to clarify doubts and apply for relevant benefits on the spot. Emphasis was placed on encouraging women and youth participation in agriculture and allied sectors through government incentives and entrepreneurship support. Farmers provided positive feedback and praised the government's initiative for bringing expert services and scheme access to their doorstep.

The VKSA campaign continues to empower farmers, ensure scheme saturation, and connect rural communities to modern agricultural knowledge and government resources. The collaborative efforts of ICAR-KVK East Sikkim, ICAR institutes, and state line departments support the holistic development of Sikkim's farming communities.

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Source: ICAR-KVK, Ranipool

MPS/TWB

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