01/07/2025
On the momentous occasion of Gwala Diwas 2025, I extend my heartiest greetings and best wishes to the esteemed people of Sikkim.
This day stands as a tribute to the unwavering dedication, resilience, and invaluable contributions of our farmers and cowherds, who labour tirelessly—often in the face of unpredictable weather and formidable challenges. Their relentless efforts form the backbone of our agrarian strength and reflect the highest ideals of selfless service to society.
The declaration of Gwala Diwas in 2020 was a historic milestone in the country, established in honour of the tireless and hardworking Gwala members whose contributions are foundational to rural prosperity and nutritional security.
The remarkable progress made by our farming community in embracing natural farming and animal husbandry has elevated India to the forefront of global milk production.
In Sikkim, we have taken proactive steps to honour and empower our farming community. Initiatives such as Gwala Diwas and the Milk Person of the Year Award reflect our deep commitment to acknowledging their invaluable service. Additionally, the cash awards of ₹10 lakh, ₹7 lakh, and ₹5 lakh to the three best-performing Dairy Cooperative Societies in the state have become a boon for the dairy sector, encouraging excellence and fostering growth.
We are also proud to offer a milk incentive of ₹8 per litre to our dairy farmers, the highest in the country as a strong step towards ensuring fair remuneration and promoting sustained milk production.
Further, Sikkim Milk recorded a 26% growth in milk procurement during 2024–2025—the highest in the country. This achievement was prominently acknowledged during the National Milk Situation meeting held in New Delhi on 22nd April 2025, chaired by the Union Secretary of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Government of India. This milestone is a testament to the tireless work and collaboration of our dairy farmers, cooperatives, and dedicated officials.
On this special occasion, I extend my warm congratulations to this year’s Milk Person of the Year and the Best Milk Producer Co-operative Society for their outstanding contributions.
I take this opportunity to convey my sincere appreciation and best wishes to the Hon’ble Minister of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Shri Puran Gurung, Chairman, Sikkim Co-operative Milk Producer’s Union Shri Yam Kumar Sharma, P.D cm Secretary Dr.Sharman Rai, Managing Director Dr TB Ghatani, the dedicated departmental officers, and all frontline personnel for their steadfast efforts. May their continued dedication inspire and guide us on our collective path towards a more prosperous, sustainable, and self-reliant Sikkim.
