Press Release
Press release from ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra-East Sikkim, Ranipool
Information & Public Relations Department
Inclusive Agri-Transformation in Action: VKSA Engages Farmers in Ranka Block of Gangtok District
The Vikshit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan (VKSA) continues to create a meaningful impact across the farming landscape of Sikkim. On its ninth day, on June 09, 2025, the campaign reached the vibrant villages of Ranka and Luing Gram Panchayat Units under the Ranka Block of Gangtok District, drawing active participation from more than 165 farmers.
This initiative remains steadfast in its goal to bring government schemes, expert guidance, and technical services directly to rural communities, with a strong emphasis on inclusive and sustainable agricultural development.
The day’s program was organized under the aegis of ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), East Sikkim, Ranipool, in coordination with the Department of Agriculture, Department of Horticulture, Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services (AH&VS), and Department of Fisheries, Government of Sikkim. These collaborative efforts exemplify the strength of integrated governance in promoting rural prosperity.
The event was spearheaded by the KVK's technical team comprising Mr. Boniface Lepcha, Subject Matter Specialist (Horticulture), Dr. K. Swapna Rani, SMS (Plant Protection), and Ms. Kotha Shravani, SMS (Agricultural Extension). Adding weight to the event were the esteemed officials from the line departments who engaged directly with farmers. These included Dr. Bharat Sharma, Deputy Director of Agriculture; Mrs. Tashi Choki Bhutia and Ms. Usha Tamang, Deputy Directors of Horticulture; Mr. Roshan Pandey, Stock Manager from AH&VS; and Mr. Surendra Bhandari, Assistant Director, Department of Fisheries. Their inputs offered practical and policy-level insights on government schemes, available subsidies, departmental services, and resource linkages crucial for rural livelihoods. Each expert addressed crucial areas including integrated pest and disease management, modern horticultural practices, agricultural extension strategies, and farmer empowerment.
The VKSA platform also facilitated on-the-spot services for farmers, such as enrolment and awareness on PM-KISAN, Soil Health Card distribution, and education about insurance coverage through PMFBY. Demonstrations on pest control techniques, livestock management, organic agriculture, and fishery-based livelihoods enhanced the technical takeaways of the day.
A noticeable and commendable aspect of the event was the significant participation of women and rural youth. Their presence underscored the growing awareness and enthusiasm for entrepreneurship, innovation, and scientific farming practices within these demographics. Feedback from participants highlighted deep appreciation for the program’s outreach and service delivery model. Farmers expressed satisfaction at receiving detailed information, expert advice, and scheme facilitation all in one place-right within their localities.
The VKSA campaign continues to function as a vital instrument of transformation in rural India. By ensuring that no farmer is left behind, this initiative is building momentum toward the national vision of a self-reliant and technologically empowered agricultural sector. With the continued dedication of ICAR-KVK East Sikkim and the unwavering support from state line departments, the campaign reinforces its promise-bringing agricultural empowerment and inclusive development right to the fields of Sikkim.
The Vikshit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan (VKSA) continues to create a meaningful impact across the farming landscape of Sikkim. On its ninth day, on June 09, 2025, the campaign reached the vibrant villages of Ranka and Luing Gram Panchayat Units under the Ranka Block of Gangtok District, drawing active participation from more than 165 farmers.
This initiative remains steadfast in its goal to bring government schemes, expert guidance, and technical services directly to rural communities, with a strong emphasis on inclusive and sustainable agricultural development.
The day’s program was organized under the aegis of ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), East Sikkim, Ranipool, in coordination with the Department of Agriculture, Department of Horticulture, Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services (AH&VS), and Department of Fisheries, Government of Sikkim. These collaborative efforts exemplify the strength of integrated governance in promoting rural prosperity.
The event was spearheaded by the KVK's technical team comprising Mr. Boniface Lepcha, Subject Matter Specialist (Horticulture), Dr. K. Swapna Rani, SMS (Plant Protection), and Ms. Kotha Shravani, SMS (Agricultural Extension). Adding weight to the event were the esteemed officials from the line departments who engaged directly with farmers. These included Dr. Bharat Sharma, Deputy Director of Agriculture; Mrs. Tashi Choki Bhutia and Ms. Usha Tamang, Deputy Directors of Horticulture; Mr. Roshan Pandey, Stock Manager from AH&VS; and Mr. Surendra Bhandari, Assistant Director, Department of Fisheries. Their inputs offered practical and policy-level insights on government schemes, available subsidies, departmental services, and resource linkages crucial for rural livelihoods. Each expert addressed crucial areas including integrated pest and disease management, modern horticultural practices, agricultural extension strategies, and farmer empowerment.
The VKSA platform also facilitated on-the-spot services for farmers, such as enrolment and awareness on PM-KISAN, Soil Health Card distribution, and education about insurance coverage through PMFBY. Demonstrations on pest control techniques, livestock management, organic agriculture, and fishery-based livelihoods enhanced the technical takeaways of the day.
A noticeable and commendable aspect of the event was the significant participation of women and rural youth. Their presence underscored the growing awareness and enthusiasm for entrepreneurship, innovation, and scientific farming practices within these demographics. Feedback from participants highlighted deep appreciation for the program’s outreach and service delivery model. Farmers expressed satisfaction at receiving detailed information, expert advice, and scheme facilitation all in one place-right within their localities.
The VKSA campaign continues to function as a vital instrument of transformation in rural India. By ensuring that no farmer is left behind, this initiative is building momentum toward the national vision of a self-reliant and technologically empowered agricultural sector. With the continued dedication of ICAR-KVK East Sikkim and the unwavering support from state line departments, the campaign reinforces its promise-bringing agricultural empowerment and inclusive development right to the fields of Sikkim.