Sikkim: Farmers Induction Programme and Dairy Training held in Pakyong

The Sikkim Co-operative Milk Producers' Union Limited successfully organized the Farmers Induction Programme cum Awareness and Training on Modern Dairy Practices – 2025 at BAC Duga, Pakyong District, on March 20, 2025. The event focused on educating dairy farmers about modern dairy techniques, sustainable farming, and improved milk production strategies.

The programme commenced with the arrival of the Chief Guest, Guest of Honors, and other dignitaries. A felicitation ceremony was conducted by BOD SMU Shri C.P. Bhattarai, followed by a welcome speech and introduction by Route In-Charge, Shri Bimal Rai. The event, funded under the National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD) SK-061, aimed to strengthen dairy infrastructure, improve cattle breeds, and boost dairy farmers' incomes. It witnessed the presence of key officials, including Shri Yam Kumar Sharma, Chairman of Sikkim Milk Union, Shri C.P. Bhattarai, BOD Sikkim Milk Union, Shri C.K. Giri, Panchayat President of Budang Kameray GPU, as well as BDO Duga, officials from the Cooperation Department, Managing Director of Sikkim Milk Union Shri T.B. Ghatani, Veterinary Officer Dr. Roje Chettri, and several dairy farmers and experts.

Addressing the gathering, T.B. Ghatani stated the importance of scientific dairy management, fodder cultivation, and animal healthcare. He elaborated on cattle feed management techniques that could help increase milk fat and SNF content while highlighting the significance of veterinary care in improving dairy productivity. Yam Kumar Sharma spoke about various government initiatives to support dairy farmers, particularly the attractive incentive of Rs 8 per kg of milk production. He assured farmers of continued support and discussed the availability of cattle loans to promote dairy farming among the youth. He also proposed an increase in milk prices by Rs 2–2.50 per kg after the board's general meeting.

During his address, Sharma encouraged farmers to produce cow fodder locally instead of relying on imports and suggested that barren lands in Sikkim be utilized for grass cultivation. He further proposed that households producing over 50 liters of milk daily would be provided with milking machines, cow bedding mats, and other facilities to support their dairy activities. He urged the younger generation to take up dairy farming as a viable career, emphasizing the need to modernize the sector for greater profitability.

The training sessions included hands-on demonstrations on clean milk production, artificial insemination techniques, and financial support schemes available for dairy farmers. Experts provided insights into best practices for dairy farming, addressing farmers’ queries in an interactive discussion session.

A significant highlight of the event was the launch of "Gwala Gyan," a dairy farming guidebook developed by the Sikkim Milk Union. Written in the Nepali language, the book serves as a valuable resource for Gwalas, offering crucial information on cattle habitat, feeding practices, and nutrient-rich grasses ideal for cattle grazing. It aims to help dairy farmers enhance milk production through better cattle management.

The National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD) has played a pivotal role in driving growth in Sikkim’s dairy sector, increasing milk production, and improving the livelihoods of farmers. The participants expressed their gratitude for the valuable insights and training, which they believe will help them adopt modern techniques to improve their dairy businesses.