Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Rajiv Ranjan Singh visited Mangan district in Sikkim on Monday to explore opportunities for expanding fisheries, livestock production and allied rural industries. During the visit, he interacted with farmers, cooperative societies and local stakeholders to discuss ways to improve agricultural productivity and strengthen rural livelihoods. The Minister highlighted the importance of conserving indigenous Siri cattle, expanding fish farming and supporting cooperative societies through government schemes.
He also discussed a target of achieving 2,000 metric tonnes of fish production and encouraged farmers to explore ornamental fish farming for international markets. The visit focused on promoting sustainable economic growth and creating additional income opportunities for rural communities in Sikkim.
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Key Facts About Rajiv Ranjan Singh’s Sikkim Visit
- Location: Mangan district, Sikkim.
- Visiting Minister: Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying.
- Main Focus: Fisheries, animal husbandry and rural livelihood development.
- Key Livestock Initiative: Proposed Siri Cattle Keeper Centre.
- Fish Production Target: 2,000 metric tonnes.
- Government Scheme: Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
- Cooperative Support: Assistance for 15 cooperative societies under PMMSY.
- Other Focus Areas: Carp farming, ornamental fish farming and dairy development.
Union Minister Visits Tingda Government Primary School
Rajiv Ranjan Singh began his visit at Tingda Government Primary School, where local representatives and government officials welcomed him.
Those present included Kabi Lungchok MLA T. T. Bhutia, Adhyaksha Kado Lepcha, Up-Adhyaksha Sonam Kipa Bhutia and Mangan Additional District Magistrate Pema Wangchen Namkarpa.
Sikkim Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services Minister Puran Kumar Gurung and Union Fisheries Department Secretary Dr Abhilaksh Likhi also attended the programme, along with other departmental officials.
Special Focus on Indigenous Siri Cattle Conservation
During his visit to the Ramthang PHSC and Wellness Centre, the Union Minister inspected an exhibition featuring Siri bulls, Siri cows and locally produced agricultural items.
The exhibition highlighted the importance of indigenous livestock and the region’s agricultural potential.
Singh emphasised the need to conserve and genetically improve the Siri cattle breed. He proposed establishing a dedicated Siri Cattle Keeper Centre to support the preservation and development of the indigenous breed.
He also suggested distributing improved cattle among farmers to increase livestock productivity, strengthen the local dairy sector and generate additional income for rural households.
Mangan Fish Farmers Receive Support Under PMMSY
The Minister later visited the Live Fish Vending Centre at Mangshila, established under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
During the visit, fish feed was distributed among local fish farmers. Singh also interacted with members of the Fish Farmers’ Cooperative Society and other stakeholders to understand their challenges and discuss opportunities to expand fisheries activities.
The discussions focused on improving fish production, strengthening cooperative networks and encouraging farmers to adopt sustainable aquaculture practices.
Government Support for 15 Cooperative Societies
Addressing farmers and stakeholders, Singh said that support would be extended to 15 cooperative societies under PMMSY.
He also highlighted the importance of developing carp farming in Sikkim and encouraged farmers to increase production through better infrastructure and coordinated efforts.
According to the Minister, an organic cluster has been identified in Soreng. He urged stakeholders to work towards achieving the proposed fish production target of 2,000 metric tonnes.
The initiative aims to strengthen fish farming as a source of income and improve the availability of fish in the region.
Ornamental Fish Farming Offers Export Opportunities
The Union Minister also highlighted the potential of ornamental fish farming, particularly in international markets.
He encouraged farmers and local entrepreneurs to explore this sector to diversify their agricultural activities and increase household income.
Ornamental fish farming could create new business opportunities in Sikkim, provided farmers receive the necessary technical support, infrastructure and market connections.
PMGSY to Continue During 2026–2031
During his interaction with stakeholders, Singh also stated that the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) would continue during the 2026–2031 period.
Improved rural road connectivity can support agricultural transportation, fish marketing and access to essential services in remote areas.
Better infrastructure would also help farmers connect with larger markets and strengthen rural economic activities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why did Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh visit Mangan?
He visited Mangan to explore opportunities in fisheries, animal husbandry and allied sectors while interacting with farmers and cooperative societies.
2. What is the proposed Siri Cattle Keeper Centre?
It is a proposed initiative aimed at conserving and improving the indigenous Siri cattle breed in Sikkim.
3. What is the fish production target discussed during the visit?
The Minister encouraged stakeholders to work towards achieving a fish production target of 2,000 metric tonnes.
4. How many cooperative societies will receive support under PMMSY?
According to the Minister, 15 cooperative societies will receive support under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana.
5. What opportunities did the Minister highlight for farmers?
He highlighted carp farming, ornamental fish farming, livestock improvement and dairy development as potential sources of additional income.
Importance for Sikkim and Northeast India
Sikkim’s mountainous geography and rural communities offer opportunities for specialised agriculture, livestock development and sustainable fisheries. Initiatives supporting indigenous cattle breeds, cooperative societies and fish farming could strengthen the state’s rural economy. The Union Minister’s visit also highlights the importance of improving agricultural infrastructure and creating new livelihood opportunities across Northeast India.
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