Union Agriculture minister assures full support for Sikkim’s agricultural development

NEW DELHI,  (IPR): Union minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, has assured comprehensive support to address the State’s key agricultural challenges.

The assurance came during a courtesy call by Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay, who also extended a formal invitation to the minister on behalf of the people of Sikkim to participate in the year-long celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of Sikkim’s Statehood. The Union minister graciously accepted the invitation.

The meeting involved an in-depth discussion on various aspects of agricultural development and rural infrastructure in Sikkim. Key among the issues raised was the urgent need for scientific intervention in cardamom cultivation, particularly to tackle persistent plant diseases that have been impacting yields.

In addition, a request was made for central support under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) to improve rural road connectivity, an essential factor for ensuring better access and livelihoods for farmers.

Responding positively, Chouhan assured that a dedicated team of agricultural experts would soon visit Sikkim to assess the situation on the ground. He highlighted the Centre’s commitment to “bringing laboratories to the farmland,” thereby ensuring direct scientific support to farmers.

The minister further mentioned the Government of India’s dedication to strengthening Sikkim’s agricultural sector and pledged full cooperation in addressing the State’s demands.