Namchi’s PRAYAS initiative earns national spotlight at NITI Aayog seminar

The district of Namchi in Sikkim has received national recognition for its innovative livelihood programme, PRAYAS – “Small Steps, Big Opportunities.” The initiative was recently showcased at the NITI Aayog Best Practice Seminar held on 7th August 2025 at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi.

The seminar, organised under the Aspirational Block Programme (ABP), brought together District Collectors from across the country to present their best practices in the field of livelihood innovation. Namchi’s presentation, led by the District Collector, drew attention for its unique and practical approach to strengthening the rural economy through community-driven efforts.

PRAYAS was conceived with a simple but powerful idea – to help local communities stand on their own feet by creating steady and sustainable income opportunities. The programme focuses on training people in different skills, connecting them with markets, and encouraging small-scale entrepreneurship. By doing so, it has not only raised household incomes but has also improved the quality of life in villages across Namchi district.

One of the most distinctive features of PRAYAS is its emphasis on community-led action. Instead of depending entirely on government handouts, villagers are encouraged to use their own skills, innovations, and resources to build a stronger local economy. This shift, officials said, has been vital in making the initiative both sustainable and meaningful.

Perhaps the most talked-about aspect of PRAYAS is the weekly market set up at the Namchi District Collectorate premises. Under this arrangement, farmers and members of self-help groups (SHGs) are invited every week to display and sell their produce directly to the public.

This simple step has created a vibrant and inclusive space where administration and community meet. Farmers no longer have to depend on middlemen to sell their vegetables, fruits, and other products. SHG members, many of them women, now have a ready platform to showcase homemade goods, handicrafts, and food items.