News & Announcement

Watershed Yatra Campaign at Mangshila GPK Mangan District

Date: 09-Feb-2025
Mangan, February 09 (IPR):
The Watershed Yatra campaign, part of the Water Development Component of the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (WDC-PMKSY) 2.0 Sikkim, was successfully organised at Mangshila GPK by the Project Implementing Agency under the State-level Nodal Agency of the Forest & Environment Department.
The event was graced by Mr Kado Tshering Lepcha Adhakshya (North), who attended as the Chief Guest. Other dignitaries included Mr Pempa Dadul Lachenpa (District Forest Officer), Ms Santa Subba (ACF ), Mr Santosh Bagdas (ACF), Mr Norden Tshering Bhutia (RO), Mr Wangyal Tshering Bhutia (AD - PRI), Zilla Panchayat President, Panchayat members, Watershed Committee members and staff from the Forest Department.
The event started with a Swearing Ceremony, Bhumi Pooja (Rabney) and a rally from roadside to the GPK. The rally aimed to raise awareness on the importance of water conservation and safeguarding water sources within the community.
A cultural programme followed, showcasing local traditions and community spirit. The programme also featured a skit performed by the Social Forestry staff from Mangan, highlighting sustainable agricultural practices. During the event, tokens of appreciation were presented to participants, celebrating their contributions toward water conservation and environmental protection.
Certificates of recognition were awarded to progressive farmers from different Gram Panchayat Units (GPUs) in Mangan District. The awardees were:
1.Mr Sangdup Lepcha from Ringhim - Nampatang.
2. Mr Dup Tshering Lepcha from Manul.
3 Ms Pem Lhakit Lepcha from Singhik - Sentam.
4 Mr Mohan Prasad Limboo from Mangshilla - Tibuk.
A video showcasing their innovative farming techniques was displayed, demonstrating their commitment to sustainable farming practices.
Mr Jigmee Hissey Bhutia gave an insightful presentation on progressive farming, stressing the need for farmers to maintain detailed registers to ensure transparency and assess the effectiveness of government schemes aimed at improving agricultural practices and water management.
Chief Guest Mr Kado Tshering Lepcha thanked all those present and underscored the critical role of safeguarding water sources. He emphasised that water conservation is not only the responsibility of the government but also of the public. Mr Lepcha urged everyone to participate actively in training programmes provided by the department to improve water management practices. He also congratulated all the beneficiaries for their dedication and achievements in advancing sustainable farming practices in their communities.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Mr Santosh Bagdas (ACF), expressing gratitude to the participants, organisers and guests for making the event a success.
It may be mentioned that Mr Tridav Nath and Mr Naba Jyoti Nath arrived with a Watershed truck from Assam the day before. They have been traveling across India to raise awareness about water conservation, representing the Government of India. Their participation highlights the national effort in promoting water conservation and sustainable practices through the WDC-PMKSY initiative.
The Watershed Development Component of PMKSY (WDC-PMKSY) is a centrally sponsored scheme aimed at improving natural resource management, including water resources, and helping farmers adapt to climate change. The initiative is fully supported by the state government under the leadership of Chief Minister Mr. Prem Singh Tamang. The campaign is an integral part of the government’s efforts to ensure sustainable development and better water management for agriculture in the region