Gangtok: In a significant move to uplift tribal communities in Sikkim, the Cooperation Department distributed a grant-in-aid totaling Rs. 51.76 lakh to seven Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs) on December 18, 2024.
The ceremony, held at Sahakari Bhawan in Tadong, was graced by Arun Kumar Upreti, Hon’ble Minister of Cooperation and Rural Development, alongside senior officials, including the Secretary, Principal Registrar, Registrar, and Additional Registrar of the department.
Gloria Namchu, Secretary of the Cooperation Department, provided an overview of the PM Van Dhan Yojana (PM VDY), emphasizing its pivotal role in enhancing the livelihoods of tribal communities through sustainable utilization of forest resources. She highlighted that Sikkim has established 80 Van Dhan Vikas Kendras under the scheme, with 77 already operational and funded. Each Kendra forms 14 Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and one Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society (MPCS), directly benefiting approximately 300 members per cluster.
The seven VDVKs that received the grant during the event are spread across various districts: Lingchom Tinga, Sakyong Pentong, Tingvong, and Tingchim Chadey in Mangan District; Sardong Lungchik in Gyalshing District; Buraikhop in Soreng District; and Chuba Perbing in Namchi District. The total distributed grant amount was Rs. 51,76,350.
An informative IEC video on the PM VDY scheme was also screened, offering insights into its implementation and benefits for tribal communities. Minister Upreti commended the initiative for its positive impact, particularly in promoting forest produce-based livelihoods. He assured continued state support for the scheme and urged the Cooperation Department to prioritize marketing the products generated under the program to ensure economic sustainability.
Encouraging beneficiaries to seize the opportunities presented by the scheme, Upreti stated, “The PM Van Dhan Yojana is a pathway to empowerment for our tribal communities. With diligence and collaboration, this initiative can foster sustainable growth and uplift the lives of those who depend on forest resources.”
The event concluded with a renewed commitment to empowering Sikkim’s tribal population through focused efforts and innovative programs like the PM Van Dhan Yojana.
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