Gangtok: Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang on Sunday inaugurated a community-run “fully organic” farmers’ market at the Reshithang area in Gangtok, marking a new initiative to promote direct farm-to-consumer sales and strengthen rural livelihoods.
The market, named ‘Hamro Gauley Bazar’, was unveiled in the Upper Burtuk constituency in the presence of local MLA Kala Rai. Officials said the initiative is designed to provide farmers with a dedicated platform to sell their homegrown organic produce directly to customers.
What makes the market unique is that it has been set up entirely through voluntary contributions from villagers under the ‘Shram Daan’ initiative or voluntary community contributions, without any financial support from the government.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Tamang thanked villagers and organisers for their collective efforts in establishing the market and praised the community for taking ownership of local economic development.
He said the government envisions developing Hamro Gauley Bazar into a vibrant centre of rural economic activity. The chief minister also stressed the importance of putting proper verification systems in place to ensure that stall holders are genuine farmers with agricultural land.
The market will operate twice a week, providing regular opportunities for farmers to connect with customers and sell fresh organic produce.
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In a move to boost both local income and tourism, Tamang directed the Tourism Department to include the market among recognised tourist attractions, allowing visitors to experience and enjoy traditional local cuisine and organic products.
