GANGTOK, : Dzongu framer Pempa Tshering
Lepcha has bagged the ‘FSRDA Best Farmer Award 2023-24’ for contribution to the
development of ‘IOFS Model’ (Integrated Organic Farming System) model with
sustainability with good returns.
The award was presented by Farming
System Research Development Association (FSRDA) during the 1st International
Farming Conference (IFSC 2025) at ICAR-IIFSR, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh held form
March 7 to 9 with theme “Transforming Food, Land & Water Systems under
Global Climate Change”.
Lepcha received award from Dr.
R.B. Singh (NAAS), Arvind Kumar (ICAR), Dr. Rajvir Singh (DDG-Agri. Extension)
and Dr. Sunil Kumar (director, IIFSR).
He initiated his organic farming
venture since early 2015, and gradually moved to commercial scale of organic
vegetables supply through established market chain channel. He was associated
with ICAR, Sikkim Centre, Tadong since early June 2021 under ‘Tribal Sub-Plan’
(TSP) Program jointly implemented by State Horticulture department, informs a
press release.
“He practices vermi composting, along with external foliar spray of seaweed
extract to boost his organic production. He has diversified vegetable farming
along with the remunerating spice cultivation like ginger, large cardamom etc.,
and initiative for organic farming venture became inspiration for young citizen
for nearby villages to engage in organic farming for better livelihood.”
Lepcha expressed heartfelt
thanks to ICAR NEHR director Dr. V.K. Mishra, TSP nodal officer Dr. S.
Hazarika, principal scientist & HoRC Dr. R. Devadas, senior scientist Dr.
Saurav Saha and entire team of ICAR, Sikkim Centre &Horticulture department
for their active technical support towards path of success progressed, release
adds.
