IDWG meeting in Gangtok reviews agricultural extension progress and farmer-focused plans
An Inter-Departmental Working Group meeting in Gangtok reviewed progress on agricultural extension programmes and discussed steps to strengthen farmer-centric A
An Inter-Departmental Working Group (IDWG) meeting was held in Gangtok at Krishi Bhawan to review progress on agricultural extension programmes. The Agriculture and Horticulture department said the discussions focused on strengthening farmer-centric initiatives across the State.
The meeting was chaired by Jigme Dorjee Bhutia, commissioner-cum-secretary of the Agriculture and Horticulture department. IDWG members from different government departments and institutions attended the session.
Plans and performance of SAMETI and ATMA reviewed
SAMETI director Rachna Gurung presented an overview of activities by the State Agricultural Management and Extension Training Institute (SAMETI) and the Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA). She outlined key achievements for the financial year 2025-26 and shared a roadmap for implementing the approved State Extension Work Plan for 2026-27.
The meeting reviewed how ATMA and SAMETI have been performing and discussed multiple agenda items. These included steps for filling vacant SAMETI and ATMA functionary positions, preparations for a proposed Kisan Mela scheduled in September, and initiatives related to recognising staff and farmer performance.
Training, awards, and convergence highlighted
Participants discussed plans to recognise outstanding SAMETI staff members and to select the best-performing ATMA district. The session also covered State and District-level awards for progressive farmers. Suggestions shared during the meeting included expanding training opportunities linked to agricultural inputs and farm operations.
ICAR-NEH director Dr. Ashok Kumar recommended introducing training programmes on Input Dealership Certificate. CAEPHT dean Prof. N.S. Chauhan stressed the need for hands-on training on operation and maintenance of farm machinery. Finance director P.G. Lucksom explained the importance and methodology of SNA-SPARSH.
The Rural Development Department highlighted the need for stronger inter-departmental convergence so that extension activities can reach farmers more efficiently, with greater impact at the grassroots level. In his keynote address, the chairperson appreciated the work done by SAMETI and ATMA and encouraged continued focus on innovation, collaboration, and coordinated action to make government schemes more accessible and beneficial for farmers.
