Press Release

Press Release from ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Sikkim Centre

Information & Public Relations Department

Date: 31-Mar-2026
Press Release from ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region,
Sikkim Centre
Tadong,
Gangtok
Farmer–Scientist Interaction and Input Distribution Programme Held at ICAR Sikkim Centre
A Farmer –Scientist Interaction and Input Distribution Programme was successfully organized on 31st March 2026 at the ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Sikkim Centre, Tadong, Gangtok, under the guidance of Dr. Ashok Kumar, HoRC, and under the Institute SCSP and IIOR TSP programmes.
The programme aimed to promote sustainable agricultural practices, strengthen farmer–scientist linkages, and enhance livelihood opportunities among farmers.
A total of 118 farmers, including 60 Scheduled Caste (SC) and 58 Scheduled Tribe (ST) farmers from all districts of Sikkim, participated in the programme. The programme was graced by the Chief Guest, Dr. A.K. Pandey, Dean, College of Horticulture, Bermiok, Sikkim. The Guests of Honour were: Dr. Rajesh Joshi, Scientist-F & Centre Head, SRC, G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment. The programme commenced with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp (diya) by the dignitaries, followed by the ICAR theme song. This was followed by a welcome and introductory address by Dr. Ashok Kumar, Head of Regional Centre, ICAR RC for NEH Region, Sikkim Centre, who emphasized the importance of sustainable agricultural practices, integrated farming systems, and livelihood enhancement in the Sikkim Himalaya.
Remarks were shared by progressive farmers and village representatives, highlighting field-level experiences and challenges. This was followed by remarks from the Guests of Honour, who emphasised climate-resilient agriculture, integrated approaches, and institutional collaboration.
The Chief Guest delivered his address, appreciating ICAR’s initiatives and encouraging farmers to adopt modern, sustainable, and scientific farming practices to enhance productivity and income. During the programme, essential agricultural inputs such as Agro nets and HDPE pipes were distributed to the farmers to support field-level activities.
The programme was coordinated by Dr. Saurav Saha, Sr. Scientist (Agriculture Physics) and Dr. Amit Kumar, Scientist (Agronomy), along with other officials of ICAR Sikkim Centre and line departments of the Government of Sikkim.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Amit Kumar (Scientist, ICAR NEH Sikkim Centre), followed by active interaction between farmers and scientists.
The event successfully strengthened the linkage between research institutions and farming communities and contributed towards sustainable agricultural development in the region.