Union Minister Lalan Singh Boosts Sikkim Dairy Sector with New Initiatives

The Hon’ble Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh, popularly known as Lalan Singh, visited Gangtok and Mangan districts of Sikkim on November 2-3, 2026. This visit aimed to bolster the dairy sector in the region through various initiatives and projects worth ₹251.56 lakh. Singh's engagement underscores the Government of India's commitment to enhancing dairy development and livestock infrastructure in Sikkim, a state recognized for its significant contributions to the dairy industry in the North Eastern Region (NER).

During his visit, Singh inaugurated a microbiology laboratory for the Sikkim Milk Union, a critical step under the National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD). This facility is expected to enhance the quality of milk production and processing in the region. Additionally, the Minister launched initiatives to establish 57 new Dairy Cooperative Societies (DCSs) under the White Revolution 2.0, which aims to improve the cooperative framework for dairy farmers. The registration certificates for five newly registered DCSs were distributed, marking a significant expansion of the cooperative network.

The formation of 15 new DCSs in North Sikkim was also announced, which will enable more dairy farmers to join the cooperative movement. This initiative is crucial for empowering local farmers and ensuring they have access to better resources and markets.

Singh's visit also focused on product diversification within the dairy sector. He unveiled new products, including organic honey, Niger seed-blended powder, and organic biscuits and sweets made from millets and buckwheat. These products represent a significant step towards enhancing value addition in the dairy industry, allowing farmers to tap into new markets and improve their income.

The introduction of these products aligns with the Government of India's broader strategy to promote organic farming and sustainable agricultural practices. By diversifying the product range, the Sikkim Milk Union aims to cater to the growing consumer demand for organic and health-oriented food products.

The Government of India has recognized the importance of Sikkim's dairy sector, providing substantial financial support to enhance its infrastructure and capabilities. Since 2014, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD) has released ₹7,093.99 lakh under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM) to support dairy development in the state. This funding has been instrumental in improving livestock genetics and promoting sustainable practices.

In addition, a special project worth ₹2,763.92 lakh has been sanctioned for the development and conservation of the indigenous Siri cattle breed, which is vital for maintaining biodiversity and supporting local farmers. The government has also allocated ₹100 lakh for the development and conservation of yak in Sikkim, recognizing the unique role of this animal in the local ecosystem and economy.

The initiatives launched during Singh's visit are expected to significantly enhance the livelihoods of farmers and livestock rearers in Sikkim. By improving supply-chain infrastructure and facilitating better market access for locally produced goods, the government aims to create new opportunities for income generation. This includes access to premium and international markets, which can provide higher returns for local dairy products.

Sikkim's dairy production has been noteworthy, with approximately 89.35 thousand metric tonnes of milk produced and a per capita milk availability of around 352 grams per day during 2024-25. The government's ongoing support and investment in the dairy sector are crucial for sustaining this growth and ensuring that local farmers can thrive in a competitive market.

The visit of Hon’ble [[Union Minister Lalan](/union-minister-lalan-singh-unveils-semen-production-protocol-for-pigs)](/union-minister-lalan-singh-boosts-fisheries-development-in-sikkim) Singh to Sikkim highlights the government's recognition of the state's contributions to the dairy and animal husbandry sectors. The initiatives launched during this visit are expected to strengthen the livelihoods of farmers, promote value addition, and improve the overall infrastructure of the dairy sector. With continued support and investment, Sikkim is poised to become a leader in sustainable dairy development in the North Eastern Region.