Research Projects

North Sikkim, a district with a population of 43,709, has a diverse eco-climate and a high literacy rate. The Lepcha and Bhutia communities dominate the region, with Dzongu being a popular tourism destination. Despite the abundance of natural resources, the community faces challenges such as limited livelihood options, human-wildlife conflict, and limited seed supply. Dzongu has been chosen as a target area for establishing a STI Hub. Traditional practices, such as bamboo making, can be used to support livelihoods. The state has declared itself fully organic since 2016, but increasing productivity is challenging. To diversify household income, the government aims to double farmers' income by 2022, but this is challenging due to low productivity and marginalized farm land.

Organic farming offers economic viability and environmental sustainability, but farmers often face low productivity and pest attacks. To improve livelihood options and sustainable livelihoods among tribal communities in Sikkim, integrated livelihood approaches based on natural resources are needed. Technological interventions, such as low-cost organic farming methods, high-yielding crops, and seed technologies, can be promoted. Strengthening community-based micro and small enterprises cells and promoting ecotourism practices can also enhance economic well-being.