Known for its eco–friendly tourism and housing, Mt. Kanchenjunga, Sikkim, has also won laurels in achieving the unthinkable. It became the first state not only in India but also in the world to become fully organic in 2016. This means that 100% of its agriculture is cultivated using manure and organic wastes.

While India’s 2.8% agricultural land, which is roughly 4.43 million hectares out of 140 million hectares, is engaged in organic farming, Sikkim’s 75,000 hectares is today being organically farmed. This data is enough to appreciate Sikkim’s commitment to sustainable and ecological farming techniques.

Although the journey wasn’t easy, the state under the leadership of then Chief Minister Pawan Kumar Chamling in 2003, took the first steps. Their aim was to reduce the use of fertilizers and pesticides and, rather, rely on natural substances. It’s been 9 years since the small north-eastern state of India has been an example for the rest of the world in the field of organic farming.

Why did the State Choose Organic Farming?

The primary reason for the shift to organic farming is attributed to the deteriorating soil health and the environmental problems caused by it. The era of the Green Revolution brought with it the excessive usage of fertilizers and pesticides, which contaminated the water resources as well as posed a life threat to the farmers who were exposed to them.

Due to its remote location and limited supply of chemicals, Sikkim has relied on natural matter for farming. Moreover, the rich culture and the relationship of the Sikkimese people with mother nature made them use minimal synthetic substances. After the announcement of the 2003 mission, the state and the farmers began following organic agriculture.

In addition to this, a global rise in demand for organic fruits and vegetables, as well as food items, has skyrocketed in the market. There could not have been a better time for Sikkim to tap into the international and premium markets that are willing to buy their products. This pushed the state to work even harder as this guaranteed them twofold benefits – to earn profits and secure a stable livelihood.

The Journey Of Transformation To An Organic State

Today, the entire world is in awe of this feat accomplished by Sikkim. But how did they achieve this? What were the obstacles faced by the state? Let us answer these questions.

It all began in 2003, when the then Chief Minister, Pawan Kumar Chamling launched the Sikkim Organic Mission. The aim of the mission was clear – to make Sikkim a chemical-free state. The first step was to lessen the use of chemical substances. By 2010, the chemical substances were removed from the government chains, making it impossible for the farmer to buy them.

Along with the elimination of chemical fertilizers, the government also began educating the farmers. They were taught how to produce compost, organic waste, natural pest repellents and manures as well as the knowledge of the importance of these substances was also imparted.

Throughout this journey, the government supported its citizens and also helped them in getting national as well as international labels for their produce. This journey culminated in success in January 2016, when the entire land under agriculture of the state was declared organic-friendly.

Impact on Agriculture and Economy

However easy and inspiring Sikkim’s transformative journey sounds, the farmers faced their own set of difficulties. They faced a significant drop in their yield, as the soil took some time to adjust to the lack of chemicals. The problem further worsened when there were concerns about access to the organic market.

But gradually, organic farming reaped its benefits. The yield became better and with time, the soil fertility also improved, thus providing an impetus to the farmers. Pest outbreaks were reduced, and the natural biodiversity returned back to the agricultural lands. Now, the Sikkimese farmers grow cardamom, ginger, turmeric and a whole wide range of vegetables – all because of organic farming. These items fetch a good amount of money in both the domestic and international markets due to the ‘organic’ label attached to them.

Economically speaking, the farmers now have more earnings than expenditures. Buying chemical fertilisers and pesticides was way more expensive than what they do with organic matter. Also, organized farmers’ markets and associations boosted their sales to domestic and international markets.

With the growth of eco-tourism, Sikkim has successfully carved its name as one of the top destinations for the same. Green lands, clean air, along with fresh food made with organic vegetables and condiments have become a favourite among the masses. And with Sikkim already providing these services, the state’s economy is stabilised to generate employment and livelihood for many.

International Recognition

Sikkim’s achievement is not only well-known in India but also around the world. Recognising the state’s efforts and triumph in attaining a rare win, the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) presented Sikkim with the prestigious ‘Oscar Gold Award’ in 2018 for its sustainable agricultural practices. The state joined the likes of other countries like Denmark and Brazil, which have also formulated green policies for their nations.

On this global platform, Sikkim was lauded for its ability to combine strong political commitment with its grassroots actions. The state also became the topic of case studies in agricultural universities. Not only this, but delegations from various countries like Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and European nations visited Sikkim to understand its green model and sustainable farming practices.

Sikkim’s journey to become the world’s first fully organic state is an inspiration as well as a lesson for other countries. Right now, when the world faces issues of soil infertility and crop damage due to the use of fertilizers, Sikkim stands as an ideal example of how organic farming can cure all agricultural problems.

The state faced its own share of challenges, but with time, they overcame it and led to the path of sustainable agriculture. With people becoming conscious eaters, it is a very good time for farmers to switch to organic cultivation, because it would not only reap profits, but also soil benefits along.

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