Boosting global partnerships to redefine organic agriculture

In a significant push to enhance its organic farming sector, Sikkim has officially designated 2025 as the “Year of Organic Exports.” The state, already recognized as India’s first fully organic farming region, is now setting its sights on international markets, creating new economic opportunities for its farmers and stakeholders.

Advancing Sikkim’s organic legacy

Sikkim’s transition to organic farming, achieved in 2016, has made it a global model for sustainable agriculture. Building on this legacy, the government plans to establish export-oriented infrastructure, expand international trade partnerships, and empower farmers with the knowledge to meet global quality standards.

Key initiatives outlined

The state government, in collaboration with the Sikkim Organic Farming Development Agency (SOFDA), has announced targeted programs to ensure the success of this initiative:

• Export-ready infrastructure: Establishing advanced processing units and quality assurance systems to meet export regulations.
• Market diversification: Focusing on high-value crops like ginger, turmeric, and cardamom for export to Europe, the Middle East, and North America.
• Farmer training programs: Workshops to educate local farmers on compliance, certification, and international organic standards.

Measurable economic impact

The focus on organic exports is expected to drive significant economic benefits:

• Revenue growth: Increased demand in global markets is anticipated to enhance the income of over 77,000 registered organic farmers in the state.
• Employment generation: Export activities will create new jobs in production, logistics, and allied sectors, uplifting local communities.

Global partnerships and recognition

Sikkim’s organic initiative has already earned accolades such as the UN-backed Future Policy Gold Award. By leveraging these achievements, the state is forming strategic partnerships with global markets to position itself as a leader in the organic export space.

A sustainable future

Speaking at the announcement event, officials from the Agriculture Department highlighted that the initiative aligns with Sikkim’s broader vision of sustainable development. The year 2025 is expected to witness a remarkable surge in organic exports, reinforcing Sikkim’s commitment to environmental preservation and economic empowerment.

This bold declaration not only strengthens Sikkim’s organic mission but also sets a precedent for other states to adopt sustainable agricultural practices.