Rooftop farming: A sustainable means to food security for Gangtok city in Sikkim, India
Abstract
Sikkim, India's 22nd state, is facing agriculture-related challenges due to its mountainous terrain. Climate change land degradation and other soil and pest-related issues further complicate the scenario. With only 12.8% of its total area dedicated to agriculture, the state encounters difficulties in sustained food production, exacerbated by urban migration. Sikkim, a fully organic state since 2016, heavily relies on imports to meet its food needs. So, Sikkim needs to exploit its potential for rooftop farming, particularly in urban areas like Gangtok, as a practical and innovative solution to address Sikkim's agricultural challenges and enhance local food production. Rooftop farming emerges as a practical solution that can help mitigate challenges associated with limited arable land and climate uncertainties to a certain degree. The assessment underscores the role of rooftop farming in enhancing food security, promoting organic produce, and reducing dependence on external sources. Government support and community engagement are crucial elements for realizing the transformative impact of rooftop farming. The article envisions rooftop farming not only as a practical response to immediate challenges but also as a pathway to align with global sustainability goals. The proposed model cited in the article is aimed to serve as a guiding light towards self-sufficiency and resilience, steering Sikkim's agricultural landscape to a future that is both sustainable and secure.
How to Cite This Article
Bijaylakhmi Goswami, Biju Pariyar (2023). Rooftop farming: A sustainable means to food security for Gangtok city in Sikkim, India . International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Growth Evaluation (IJMRGE), 4(6), 710-717.