Sikkim Agriculture

In Sikkim, agriculture is the main occupation of the inhabitants. Agriculture in Sikkim seems to be the basis of the socio-cultural pattern of the territory.

In Sikkim, the aborigines of the land were nomads who spent their time hunting for food. But gradually, when the Bhutias came and settled in Sikkim they started practicing a semi-pastoral form of farming. The Bhutias practiced economy or sedentary farming within the territory of Sikkim. It is only by the infiltration of the Nepali immigrants that agriculture started within the territory of Sikkim.

Sikkim is blessed by a fertile land that largely supports agriculture. The topography and the climatic condition of Sikkim is favorable for agriculture at Sikkim. Therefore, Sikkim witnesses a high yield every year. Among the chief crops grown in Sikkim are:

• Wheat
• Paddy
• Maize
• Barley
• Buck wheat
• Cardamom
• Potatoes
• Tea, etc.

It is noteworthy that Sikkim produces the highest amount of Cardamom in India. Sikkim is also known for housing the largest area of Cardamom field within the territory. Cardamom is among the two cash crops of Sikkim, besides potato.

Another important aspect of agriculture of Sikkim is tea. Sikkim is known for producing a special variety of tea that is known for its taste and quality throughout the world. One might come across a number of tea estates in Sikkim that form an integral part of Sikkim agriculture.

Moreover, to improve the prospects of agriculture in Sikkim, an agricultural department has been established under the economic plans of the government of Sikkim. Under this plan, improved varieties of seeds and fertilizers are being used so that the total yield of the land can be increased.

Therefore, it can be said that agriculture is the most important part of the socio-economic pattern in Sikkim.



Last Updated on : 7 March 2013