Gangtok, Jun 29: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on Monday saluted the farming community on the occasion of ‘Asar 15’ (agriculture festival) and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to modernising agriculture while safeguarding the Himalayan state’s rich agrarian traditions.
Asar 15 (also known as Asadh Pandra, Ropain Diwas), is an annual agricultural festival celebrated in Nepal, Sikkim, and the Darjeeling hills on the 15th day of the Nepali month of Ashadh.
In a social media message, the chief minister conveyed his best wishes to Nepali-speaking and Nepali-related people across India and abroad, describing Asar 15 as a celebration of the “labour, dedication, unity, friendship, hope and enthusiasm of farmers”.
Highlighting the significance of the day, Tamang said Asar 15 provides an opportunity to honour farmers who toil tirelessly in muddy paddy fields during the sowing season while preserving the region’s agricultural heritage. He also noted that the tradition of sharing dahi-chiura continues to strengthen social harmony and collective cultural identity.
“Agriculture is an important foundation of our economy. The contribution of our farmers in ensuring food security, strengthening the rural economy and building a self-reliant society is incomparable,” the chief minister said.
“I believe that respect for farmers, increase in agricultural production and development of modern, commercial and sustainable agricultural systems are the needs of the day,” Tamang said.
Reiterating his government’s focus on the agricultural sector, Tamang said efforts are underway to modernise farming through expanded irrigation, improved access to quality seeds and technology, promotion of organic farming and the development of agricultural entrepreneurship.
“Our government is also committed to attracting our youth to the agricultural sector and building a new foundation for rural economy and prosperity by linking agriculture and tourism,” he added.
Expressing his “highest respect” for the state’s farming community, the chief minister wished farmers happiness, peace, prosperity and continued progress, while hoping that the festival would inspire greater responsibility towards agriculture, nature and cultural preservation.(PTI)
