Agriculture and Horticulture developement

The citrus industry in Sikkim, particularly mandarin production, had been declining due to disease pressures, inadequate genetic diversity, and environmental challenges. This project aimed to revitalize the industry by introducing robust plant varieties capable of thriving in the local climate and resisting prevalent diseases.

Objectives

The primary goals were to:

• Enhance Mandarin Productivity: By improving germplasm and planting materials for low-resource farmers.

• Document Industry Status: To understand the current challenges and opportunities within Sikkim’s citrus industry.

• Broaden Genetic Diversity: Through the introduction of improved scion and rootstock from global sources.

Implementation Strategy and Outcomes

Methodological Approach

The approach included:

• Germplasm Improvement: Introduction of superior genetic material from international sources to test in Sikkim's climatic conditions.

• Community and Technical Engagement: Collaboration with local farmers, horticultural experts, and international researchers to ensure the project's success.

• Educational Programs: Initiatives to train local farmers and agricultural students on advanced citrus cultivation techniques.

Key Outcomes

• Improved Crop Varieties: Introduction of disease-resistant and high-yield citrus varieties significantly improved productivity.

• Strengthened Local Expertise: Capacity building among local farmers and researchers through workshops and training sessions.

• Sustainable Agricultural Practices: Promotion of environmentally friendly cultivation techniques that enhance biodiversity and soil health.

Table 1: Impact of Germplasm Introduction