Gangtok, Aug 14: In a significant stride towards promoting organic farming and education, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang marked a pivotal moment by laying the foundation stone for the forthcoming Sikkim Organic Agriculture University (SOAU) in Mondegaon, Soreng district.
Highlighting that Sikkim holds the distinction of being India’s inaugural organic state, Chief Minister Tamang underscored that SOAU is poised to become a center of excellence focused on imparting knowledge about organic farming practices. He noted that numerous students from Sikkim pursue studies in agriculture, horticulture, and forestry outside the state, with more than 500 students studying undergraduate and postgraduate courses in these domains in Dehradun alone.
With the establishment of SOAU within Sikkim’s borders, the necessity for students to venture beyond the state for their agricultural education will soon become obsolete. To expedite the commencement of courses, Chief Minister Tamang directed officials to identify temporary facilities.
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Earlier this year, the Sikkim Organic Agriculture University Act, 2023 was ratified by the Sikkim assembly, solidifying the legal framework for the university’s establishment.
In addition to its academic contributions, the university is expected to catalyze economic activities in the remote Mondegaon region, as emphasized by the Chief Minister. The development of the SOAU’s infrastructure within the coming year is anticipated to foster a surge of employment opportunities for local inhabitants, transforming the region into a hub of economic growth.
The initiation of SOAU reflects Sikkim’s continued commitment to sustainability, organic practices, and the empowerment of its residents through education and economic advancement. As the first state in India to embrace organic farming comprehensively, Sikkim’s pioneering efforts resonate not only on a regional level but also on a global scale, serving as a model for sustainable agricultural practices that prioritize environmental health and local well-being.
