Gyalshing, February 20(IPR): A training-cum-distribution programme on temperate fruit cultivation was successfully conducted by the Horticulture Department under Rastriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) scheme at Utteray and Sopkha under Dentam Division. The event aimed to introduce and promote the cultivation of Peach, Plum, Nectarine and Persimmon, which are newly introduced fruit crops in Sikkim.
The programme was conducted under the supervision of Dr Hemant Ghimire, Deputy Director (Horticulture) and Ms Barsha Sunar, Horticulture Development Officer, Dentam Sub-Division.
The training focused on orchard establishment, proper planting techniques, orchard management and the potential benefits of these fruit crops in the region. The concerned field staff from Uttarey and Sopkha were also present, ensuring effective knowledge dissemination and future technical support for the farmers.
A total of eight farmers from the region benefited from this initiative. Each farmer received 40 grafted plants of Peach, Plum, Nectarine, and Persimmon, ensuring a total of 320 plants distributed during the event.
A hands-on training session was also conducted as part of the programme.
The department aims to transform this far-flung region into a thriving fruit belt, leveraging its cold climatic conditions, which are highly suitable for temperate fruit cultivation. With sustained efforts and farmer participation, the area has the potential to emerge as a major fruit-producing hub and a tourist attraction in the near future.
This initiative aligns with the government’s vision to enhance rural livelihoods through horticultural expansion, ensuring economic benefits for farmers while promoting eco-tourism and sustainable agriculture in Sikkim.
The programme was successfully conducted, equipping farmers with both planting materials and technical knowledge. The initiative marks an important step towards the diversification of horticulture in Sikkim, fostering self-reliance and long-term economic growth in these remote areas.