Fifth annual celebration spotlights vital contributions to milk production and rural progress.
Sikkim recently celebrated its 5th Gwala Diwas, a landmark event organized by The Sikkim Co-operative Milk Producers’ Union Limited in collaboration with the Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services. Held at Manan Kendra in Gangtok, the primary objective of this significant occasion was to acknowledge and honor the unwavering dedication of dairy farmers and cooperative members who have been instrumental in fostering the remarkable growth and resilience of Sikkim’s dairy sector. The ceremony drew prominent attendees, including Chief Guest Minister Puran Kumar Gurung, alongside other senior leaders and hundreds of engaged dairy producers, reinforcing the state’s commitment to its agribusiness foundation.
The event served as a crucial platform for discussing key strategies aimed at elevating milk production, boosting farmers’ earnings, and enhancing critical infrastructure within the dairy industry. Beyond these serious discussions, Gwala Diwas featured several engaging segments. These included the unveiling of a new mascot punchline, a compelling documentary chronicling the Sikkim Milk Union’s transformative journey, and an informative educational film offering practical guidance on optimal feed and nutrition for cattle, showcasing a holistic approach to dairy economics and farmer empowerment.
A highlight of the celebration was the extensive award distribution ceremony, recognizing excellence across the dairy community. Top-performing Milk Producer Co-operative Societies (MPCS) received well-deserved district-wise and state-level honors, accompanied by cash prizes. Individual contributions were also celebrated, including a student for academic excellence, a differently-abled milk pourer for his unique dedication, and the creative designers behind the new mascot. This comprehensive recognition underlined the diverse efforts driving Sikkim’s rural progress.
The Gwala Diwas also paid a heartfelt tribute to the former Managing Directors whose pioneering efforts laid the foundational stones of the Sikkim Milk Union. The highest accolade of the event, the prestigious Gwala Ratna Award for 2024–25, was bestowed upon Sukmaya Tamang, acknowledging her exceptional and lasting contributions to dairy farming. This award symbolizes the profound impact individuals have on the collective success of the sector and inspires future generations of dairy producers.
In his keynote address, Minister Gurung emphasized the critical importance of promoting indigenous cattle breeds, recognizing their adaptability and unique characteristics. He also called for the strategic establishment of dairy development clusters, which would foster concentrated growth and efficiency. Beyond the immediate scope of the dairy sector, Minister Gurung’s speech resonated with broader social concerns, illustrating the interconnectedness of agricultural development with community well-being and sustainable progress in Sikkim.
Source: India Today NE: Sikkim celebrates 5th Gwala Diwas, honours dairy farmers and champions of rural progress
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