Share
Sikkim, India's second-smallest state, located in the Himalayas, has made history by becoming the first state in India to become fully organic. This is a huge achievement, given that it was only declared a state in 1975 and has a population of just over 600,000 people. This incredible journey is the result of a concerted effort by the government of Sikkim to promote sustainable farming practices and organic food production.
Achieving this accomplishment was a difficult 13-year process, with farmers having to endure losses at first and introduce new farming practices. Today, it is being praised by people all over the world, with its organic products being sought-after.
About Sikkim
Sikkim is a tiny state located in the northeastern part of India, nestled in the Himalayas between Nepal and Bhutan, covering an area of only 7,096 square kilometers. The state's unique soil and climatic conditions give these products a unique taste, texture, and color that is different from other products in India.
History of sustainable farming in Sikkim
Sustainable farming practices have been practiced in Sikkim for centuries. Traditionally, the people of Sikkim relied on natural farming methods such as crop rotation and composting to cultivate crops. In addition, traditional farming practices such as intercropping, terracing, and the use of natural fertilizers were also employed. This allowed for a sustainable cycle of crop production and ensured that soil fertility was maintained.
However, over the years, the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and other synthetic inputs increased in the state. This led to a decline in soil fertility and an increase in pollution. In response, the government of Sikkim launched the Sikkim Organic Mission in 2003 to encourage farmers to switch to organic farming practices.
Benefits of organic farming in Sikkim
Organic farming has numerous benefits for the environment, economy, and society.
• In Sikkim, organic farming has led to an increase in soil fertility, a reduction in pollution, and an increase in crop yields.
• In addition, organic farming has also created employment opportunities in the state. It has helped revive rural economies and encouraged the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises.
• Organic farming has also improved the health of the people of Sikkim. Since organic produce is free from synthetic chemicals and pesticides, it is healthier and safer to consume.
• In addition, organic farming has also helped to conserve biodiversity in the state. The use of organic fertilizers has increased the availability of nutrients in the soil, which in turn has resulted in the growth of a variety of plants and animals.
• It has also helped boost the state’s tourism industry, as tourists are attracted to Sikkim’s organic products.
• Today, Sikkim's organic produce is renowned for its high quality and taste, and it is sought after by food enthusiasts and health-conscious consumers alike.
Organic food products produced in Sikkim
1. One of the most sought-after organic food products in Sikkim is the state's famous cardamom. Cardamom is a popular spice in India and is used to flavor many traditional dishes. Sikkim's cardamom is particularly prized for its unique flavor and aroma, which is said to be due to the state's unique soil and climatic conditions. Cardamom is grown in the remote and rugged terrain of the state, which makes it difficult to cultivate. However, the effort is worth it as Sikkim's cardamom is considered to be some of the best in the world.
2. Buckwheat is a high-protein grain and an excellent substitute for common white flour. Buckwheat is full of essential vitamins, nutrients, and fiber. It is also known to be perfect for organic farming due to its great resistance to insects and other pests. In Sikkim, buckwheat is typically prepared as a pancake or even to make liquor. Lately, many people have been replacing white flour with buckwheat powder to make dumpling wrappers.
3. Another popular organic food product in Sikkim is the state's ginger. Sikkim's ginger is known for its strong aroma and pungent taste, which is a result of the state's unique soil and climatic conditions. The ginger is grown on terraced fields in the remote and rugged terrain of the state, and it is considered to be some of the best ginger in India. The ginger is used in many traditional dishes and is also used to make ginger tea, which is a popular drink in the state.
4. Sikkim is also known for its high-quality turmeric, which is grown in the state's remote and rugged terrain. The turmeric is known for its bright yellow color and its strong aroma, which are a result of the state's unique soil and climatic conditions. Turmeric is used in many traditional dishes and is also used to make turmeric powder, which is a popular spice in India.
5. Sikkim's organic vegetables are another sought-after product. The state's remote and rugged terrain makes it difficult to cultivate vegetables, but the effort is worth it as Sikkim's vegetables are known for their high quality and taste. Some of the most popular organic vegetables in Sikkim include tomatoes, cauliflower, and radishes. These vegetables are grown using sustainable and chemical-free farming practices, which makes them safe and healthy to consume.
6. In addition to these products, Sikkim is also known for its organic fruits, such as apples, oranges, and peaches. These fruits are grown using sustainable and chemical-free farming practices, which makes them safe and healthy to consume. They are also known for their unique taste, texture, and color, which is a result of the state's unique soil and climatic conditions.
Sikkim’s organic mission is a remarkable success story, and it serves as an inspiration to other states and countries around the world to embrace organic food production. We hope that in the future, more states and countries will follow in Sikkim’s footsteps and make the switch to organic farming.
