KalimNews, Kalimpong, March 5, 2025: The 2nd International Workshop on Climate-Resilient Orange Cultivation in the Eastern Himalayas brought together experts from across the globe, including Nepal, Bhutan, the U.S., Iran, and China, to discuss and shape the future of orange farming in the Darjeeling and Kalimpong areas of the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA). The two-day workshop, organized by the Directorate of Cinchona & Other Medicinal Plants, GTA, and the Department of Food Processing Industries & Horticulture, Government of West Bengal, was held at Cluny Women’s College, Kalimpong.
The workshop was graced by key dignitaries, including Arup Roy, Minister of Food Processing Industries & Horticulture, Government of West Bengal, Anit Thapa GTA Chief Executive , Dr. Preeti Goyal, District Magistrate (DM) Darjeeling, Balasubramanian T, DM Kalimpong, Ruden Sada Lepcha, MLA Kalimpong, Ratan Thapa, Senora Namchu, Sabhasads of GTA, and Dr. Samuel Rai, Director of Cinchona & Other Medicinal Plants and others.
The primary focus of the workshop was to empower farmers with innovative techniques and global best practices to rejuvenate Mandarin orange cultivation. Key discussions centered on strategies to produce disease-free Mandarin orange saplings, climate-resilient farming techniques, and sustainable growth methods for the local farming community. These discussions were designed to ensure the future sustainability of orange farming, which has long been a significant livelihood source for many families in the region.
In his address, Anit Thapa emphasized the importance of collaboration among local and global stakeholders to address the challenges posed by climate change and other agricultural threats. He called upon all participants to work together towards a greener, resilient, and prosperous future for the region’s farmers.
The workshop is part of a broader initiative to secure the livelihood of farmers in the Eastern Himalayas, ensuring that orange farming continues to thrive while being more sustainable and resistant to climate change. The commitment to holding annual workshops is expected to further strengthen these efforts, promoting sustainable and prosperous farming practices in the region. The initiative marks a significant step in ensuring a future where orange cultivation in the Eastern Himalayas remains resilient and productive for years to come.
