The Northeast Indian state adopted a resolution in 2003 to focus on organic farming.
May 16 every year is observed as Sikkim Day to commemorate the day in 1975 when Sikkim became the 22nd state of India. The day marks a state holiday in Sikkim and is celebrated through a series of events.
The Northeast Indian state is known for its ethereal natural beauty. It attracts millions of tourists from across the world, who crave to escape from the hustle and bustle of their regular lifestyle.
However, not many know that Sikkim is the world's first Organic state, and sets an example for the rest of the world.
View this post on Instagram
The then Chief Minister of the state, Pawan Chamling, implemented a 100% organic policy and made a partnership with several agricultural development and research organizations in the country and abroad.
About 75,000 hectares of land across the state were converted into organic.
In 2010, the state government launched the 'Sikkim Organic Mission' to track its journey toward achieving the 100% organic tag. It benefitted over 66,000 farming families in the state.
View this post on Instagram
After a few years, Sikkim got recognized as the “world’s first organic state” by the World Book of Records London. The citation reads, “Sikkim state (India) has been included for being the first organic state in the world and crime-free state with the best governance.”
Over the years, the 'Sikkim Organic Mission’ has helped enormously in rural development and sustainable living across the state.
The Sikkim Government has launched many campaigns to spread awareness about organic farming.
