Research

Traditional Knowledge

Title :

Promoting natural resource base integrated livelihood approaches through Science Technology and Innovation Hub for socio-economic development of the Primitive tribe in Dzongu amp Kabi Blocks of North District, Sikkim

Area of research :

Traditional Knowledge

Focus area :

Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Principal Investigator :

Dr. Rajesh Joshi, G B Pant National Institute Of Himalayan Environment, Gangtok, Sikkim (737101)

Timeline Start Year :

2024

Timeline End Year :

2027

Contact info :

Details

Executive Summary :

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.

Co-PI:

Dr. Devendra Kumar, G B Pant National Institute Of Himalayan Environment, Gangtok, Sikkim (737101), Dr. Kailash Singh Gaira, G B Pant National Institute Of Himalayan Environment, Gangtok, Sikkim (737101), Dr. Mayank Joshi, G B Pant National Institute Of Himalayan Environment, Gangtok, Sikkim (737101), Dr. Sandeep Rawat, G B Pant National Institute Of Himalayan Environment, Gangtok, Sikkim (737101), Mr. Ugen Palzor Lepcha, Mutanchi Lom Aalshezum, Dzongu, Sikkim (737116)

Total Budget (INR):

4,33,91,519

Organizations involved