06/03/2026
Press release from Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services Department, Government of Sikkim, Gyalshing District
AH&VS Gyalshing Organises Calf Rally and Livestock Show at Begha Dentam
Gyalshing,March 5:A Calf Rally and Livestock Show was successfully organised by the Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services Department, Government of Sikkim, Gyalshing District, under the National Livestock Mission (NLM) 2025–26, at Begha, Dentam,today.
The programme witnessed the enthusiastic participation of more than 40 farmers, who showcased a diverse range of livestock species including cattle, sheep and goats, ducks, fowls, and pigs. Animals were displayed in species-wise sheds and ponds specially constructed for the event, and each animal was assigned a tag number for proper identification. The event provided a unique platform for invitees and the general public to witness a wide variety of livestock species at a single venue, promoting awareness on diversified livestock farming.
A judgment session formed a key highlight of the programme, where animals were evaluated by a panel of judges under different species categories. Based on the evaluation, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd positions were awarded in each category. The winners were honoured with merit certificates and cash prizes, while all other participants received participation certificates and honorariums in recognition of their valuable contribution.
The programme was also clubbed with activities from ATMA and SSB, benefiting farmers through various supportive initiatives. Mineral mixtures were distributed to all participating farmers to promote better livestock nutrition and productivity.
In addition, a Veterinary Civic Camp was organised by 72nd BN SSB(Yuksam), where farmers availed veterinary medicines and nutritional supplements for their livestock, further strengthening animal health support services in the area.
The programme was graced by several dignitaries including Hon’ble Area MLA 03- Maneybong-Dentam Constituency Shri Sudesh Kumar S***a;Zilla Panchayat Member Dentam–Begha TC Shri Dinesh Gurung;Panchayat President Begha GPU Smt Seema Rai , along with other Panchayat members of Begha GPU, Panchayat Member (SRK GPU) Shri Prakash Limboo;CLC President Shri DN Sherpa;CLC General Secretary Shri Rustam Gurung;CLC Youth Secretary Shri Ongdup Lepcha .
Officials present from the Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services Department and associated institutions included, Additional Director-cum-District Head Shri BB Limboo, Joint Director-cum-D&DO Dr Phurba Lepcha, and Veterinary Officers Dr Joshbina Thapa (DVH, Geyzing), Dr Norleen Pandhi Lepcha (SDVH, Dentam), Dr Noor Saknim Lepcha (VD Uttarey), Dr Anu Lakhandri (VH Tashiding), Dr Mirash S***a (VD Tathang), Dr Summyangma Limboo (DVH, Geyzing), and staff of the AH & VS Department, Dentam Subdivision.
Other officials present included Deputy PD , ATMA , Gyalshing District Dr Karma C Bhutia, ADDO Shri Kamal Pradhan, Shri Gajen Kumar Gurung (Retd. DFO),
The programme commenced with a welcome address by Shri Basu Dev Sharma, followed by the programme highlights delivered by Dr. Phurba Lepcha (Joint Director, AH &VS). In his address, he elaborated on the judging procedures and emphasized the importance of organizing livestock shows. He highlighted that such events encourage farmers to explore and adopt diversified livestock farming by observing species they may not have previously reared, thereby promoting integrated and sustainable farming practices.
Deputy PD , ATMA , Geyzing District Dr. Karma C. Bhutia highlighted the significance of the Kisan Gosthi conducted alongside the calf rally, aimed at promoting scientific dairy farming practices among farmers. He also elaborated on the farmer-oriented initiatives and programmes implemented by the Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA).
In his address, Additional Director-cum-District Head , Geyzing District Shri B. B. Limboo highlighted the various developmental activities undertaken by the Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services Department. He also informed the gathering about the formation and training of the Rapid Response Team (RRT) under Dentam Subdivision, which plays a crucial role in the prevention and control of Avian Influenza (H5N1) outbreaks.
Addressing the gathering, Hon’ble Area MLA 03- Maneybong Dentam Constituency Shri Sudesh Kumar S***a appreciated the department for organizing such an impactful programme for the farming community. He announced that a hatchery unit will soon be established under Dentam Subdivision. He further assured that the proposal for the renovation and upgradation of the Banpala Sheep Breeding and Conservation Farm would be placed before the Cabinet. He also assured the public of the construction of a permanent Veterinary Hospital in the area, considering the immense potential for milk production and the growing number of progressive farmers in the region.
The programme also witnessed the distribution of certificates, cash prizes, and mineral mixtures to the participating farmers.
The event ended with a vote of thanks delivered by Shri Anil Rai, who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, officials, farmers, and participants for their support in making the programme a grand success.