Sikkim Rural Livelihood Mission (SRLM)

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Sikkim Rural Livelihood Mission

 

 

Under National Rural Livelihood Mission

 

 

                                       Write Up

For the Year 2024-25

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Submitted By:

Sikkim Rural Livelihood Mission

Rural Development Department

Government of Sikkim

 

 

 

SRLM in Sikkim

National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) is a poverty alleviation project implemented by Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India. This scheme is focused on promoting self-employment and organization of rural poor. The basic idea behind this program is to organize the poor into SHG (Self Help Groups) groups and make them capable for self-employment.

The primary mission of DAY-NRLM is to reduce poverty by enabling the poor households to access gainful self- employment and skilled wage employment opportunities resulting in appreciable improvement in their livelihoods on a sustainable basis, through building strong and sustainable grassroots institutions of the poor.

Sikkim Rural Livelihood Mission (SRLM) under Rural Development Department is implemented in all the six districts of Sikkim for the rural poor and underprivileged people of Sikkim. Sikkim Rural Livelihood Mission (SRLM) was initiated in Sikkim in the financial year 2015-16 in East and North districts and in the financial year 2019-20 in South and West districts after North East Rural Livelihoods Project (NERLP) under Ministry of DoNER was completed and officially exited from these districts. 

SRLM is implemented in the grassroots through different sectors with specialized sector personnel at State Mission Management Unit (SMMU) and Block Mission Management Unit (BMMU). Some SHG members are selected as Community Resource Persons who work at ward and block levels directly with the SHG members.

So far, SRLM has created and supported 5846 Self Help Groups (SHGs) with 50546 women members in the state. SRLM is also supporting 166 numbers of Producer Groups (PG’s) across the state and are engaged in different farm based activities.

 

Activities Covered Under IBCB (Institution Building & Capacity Building) for FY 2024–2025

During the financial year 2024–2025, a range of activities were undertaken under the Institution Building and Capacity Building (IBCB) component to strengthen community institutions, ensure financial discipline, and enhance the capacity of cadres and staff at various levels.

A robust internal audit system, implemented since 2017, continues to ensure transparency and accountability within community-based organizations. In the current financial year, audits were conducted across 5,481 Self Help Groups (SHGs), 484 Village Organizations (VOs), and 34 Cluster Level Federations (CLFs). As per the mandate of Ministry, SHGs are audited annually, VOs semi-annually, and CLFs quarterly. Dedicated cadres have been deployed to follow up on audit findings and ensure timely rectification of adverse remarks.

Institution formation efforts have also progressed significantly. A total of 165 new SHGs were formed and registered under the National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM). One new Block Development Society (BDS) was formed and registered, and the process for registering 34 more BDSs under the Cooperative Society Act is currently underway.

Capacity building remained a cornerstone of IBCB interventions. Under the Model CLF framework, two Master State Resource Persons (SRPs) and twenty State Resource Persons were developed. Training programs focusing on Community-Based Organization (CBO) governance, human resource management, and sub-committee functions were conducted at the state level for 32 SRPs. These trainings were subsequently rolled out across 34 CLFs to strengthen governance and operational efficiency at the grassroots level.

In addition, cadres were trained in key areas including bookkeeping, SHG grading, auditing, SHG concept, and organizational management, with all trainings scheduled to be completed by the second quarter of the financial year. A separate state-level training session was also conducted on the use of the Model CLF Web Application to improve digital literacy and data management within community institutions.

Efforts to streamline financial management were marked by the ongoing process of recouping Community Investment Funds (CIF) from VOs to CLFs, aimed at ensuring smooth financial transactions and fund utilization at the CLF level.

To support effective implementation and thematic integration, regular monitoring and support were provided to Block Mission Management Unit (BMMU) staff. This included participation in monthly CLF meetings and verification of Books of Record (BOR) and meeting minutes by thematic experts.

Through these initiatives, IBCB has continued to foster institutional sustainability, improve financial governance, and build local capacity to manage and lead development initiatives at the community level.

SRLM Footprint till Now

 

SN	PARTICULARS	TOTAL
1	Districts Covered	6
2	Blocks Covered	34
3	Gram Panchayats Covered	197
4	Villages Covered	1147
5	Total Target Households	59147
6	Households Mobilized into SHGs	50481
7	Self Help Groups (SHG) Promoted	5846
8	Ward Development Society (WDS) Promoted	488
9	Block Development Society (CLF) Promoted	34

 

Financial Support to Community Institutions

SRLM works towards poverty alleviation and upliftment of poor rural women. In order to achieve that, SRLM has built robust and strong community institutions at ground level. These institutions are provided various types of financial support in order to manage and function properly and also to support SHG members in financing the livelihood activities. Details of financial supports provided to different community institutions are given below:

 

 

 

1. Self Help Groups
   1. Start-up Fund (SF): Start-up fund of Rs. 2000/- is provided to SHGs upon formation, completion of profiling in NRLM MIS and opening of savings bank account.
   2. Revolving Fund (RF): After completion of 3 months from date of formation, the SHG is graded and only those SHGs with “A & B Grade” qualify for release of RF of Rs. 25000/-. This fund can be used for inter-lending among SHG member and has to be repaid back along with the interest.

 

2. Ward Development Society/Self Help Group Federation
   1. Start-up Fund (SF): Start-up fund of Rs. 50,000 is provided to WDS upon formation, completion of profiling in NRLM MIS and opening of savings bank account for office setup.
   2. Community Investment Fund (CIF): After 6 months of formation, SHG is graded and Micro Credit Plan (MCP) is prepared for all SHGs and submitted to WDS/SHGF. A total of Rs. 1.5 lakhs/SHG is disbursed to WDS/SHGF which can be taken as a loan by SHG member for financing livelihood activities and has to be repaid back along with the interest.
   3. Vulnerability Reduction Fund (VRF): VRF @1.5 lakh per WDS is released after preparation of Vulnerability Reduction Plan. VRF can be used to address the food and nutritional security, health issues and immediate vulnerabilities faced by a SHG member due to natural calamities or sudden death of a family member.

 

3. Block Development Society
   1. Start-up Fund: Start-up fund of Rs. 3.5 lakhs is provided to BDS upon formation, completion of profiling in NRLM MIS and opening of savings bank account for office setup.
   2. Viability Gap Fund (VGF): All BDS are required to prepare the Business Development Plan for accessing the projected future revenue and expenditure. If the projected expenditure of BDS is greater than the income, than the BDS is eligible for receiving VGF for compensating the additional expenses during the initial years of operation. VGF can be used to meeting the day to day operational expenses, paying the salary of staff, rent, etc.
   3. Other Grants: Other grants like grant for PG, fund for CMTC, AGEY grant, etc. which is to be released to SHG, PG or WDS/SHGF is also provided to BDS and later released to respective beneficiaries.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Details of financial support provided to community institutions by SRLM as on April 2025

 

SN	CBO Type	Fund Type	Amount (Rs. in Lakhs)
1	SHG	Start-up Fund	108.22
2	SHG	Revolving Fund	993.01
3	WDS	Start-up Fund	179.5
4	WDS/BDS	Community Investment Fund	8133.01
5	WDS	Vulnerability Reduction Fund	717.63
6	BDS	Start-up Fund	115.5
		Total	10246.870

 

Sl.No.	Indicators	FY 2024-25
		Target 2024-25	Ach. 2024-25	Cum Progress
A.	Outreach
1	No. of Blocks with >95% saturation	1	1	34
B.	SHGs and Households
2	Number of new SHGs promoted	100	165	5846
3	Number of other SHGs brought into NRLM fold (after revival/ strengthening/ compliance checks)	0	0	0
4	Total number of SHGs under NRLM fold	100	165	5846
5	Total Households mobilized into all SHGs	1560	2521	50481
6	Number of SHGs having Saving Bank Account	208	165	5846
7	Number of trained SHG Bookkeepers deployed	156	165	5846
8	Number of SHGs annually audited (internal)	5676	5841	5846
C	VOs (including model CLF areas)
9	Number of VOs formed	0	0	488
10	Number of SHGs holding membership in VOs	156	201	5570
11	Number of VOs having saving bank account	0	5	488
12	Number of VOs provided training on basic VO management	0	5	488
13	Number of VOs having trained Bookkeeper	0	0	488
14	Number of VOs having trained subcommittees	484	484	488
15	Number of VOs internally audited half yearly basis	484	485	488
16	Number of VOs trained on SOPs –Governance & CBO HR	0	0	488

 

 

Activities covered under FNHW (Food Nutrition Health and Wash)

 

As per the State’s SOP for FNHW implementation in the state, the nine FNHW modules have been prepared for FNHW intervention in across the state. The SHGs, VOs and CLF are the main institutions for rolling out the activities through the Community Cadres. The nine major topics are as given below: 

1. Part I, 1000 day window

2. Part II, 1000 day window

3. Dietary diversity

4. Child disease, care and prevention,

5. Menstrual Health Management,

6. Communicable disease,

7. Agri Nutrition Linkage,

8. Adolescent Social and Health Development and

9. Sanitation

 

As of now FNHW modules 1, 2 and 3 which are as “1000 day window part I, 1000 day window part II” and Dietary Diversity have been rolled out at SHG level though the Community Cadre. Two blocks Pakyong and Hee Martam are the Resource blocks where NRO-BRLPS is supporting them by deputing trained cadre in the field.

 

Poshan Abhiyan: Every year Sikkim SRLM observes all kinds of Poshan Abhiyan in convergence with the line department especially with Health Department and Social welfare and Justice Department.

 

 

 

Sl. No	Indicators	Target 2024-25	Ach. 2024-25	Cumulative Ach. Till date
1	No. of Districts initiated FNHW activities as per the intensive strategy	0	0	6
2	No. of CLFs initiated FNHW activities as per the intensive strategy (Total including MCLFs)	0	0	34
3	No. of VOs initiated FNHW activities as per the intensive strategy	295	53	53
4	No. of BMMU staff trained on FNHW	34	34	34
5	No. of Block Resource Persons (one block staff from each block) trained on FNHW (Total no.)	34	34	34
6	No. of Community Resource Persons trained on FNHW (Total No.)	810	544	881
7	No. of CLF SACs trained on FNHW	34	0	0
8	No. of VO SACs trained on FNHW	374	0	0
9	No. of VOs conducted community events on FNHW (excluding POSHAN Maah and COVID vaccination)	33	2	2

 

 

 

 

 

Gender & Social Inclusion

SOCIAL INCLUSION

During the financial Year 2024-2025, Elderly members above the age of 55 years were mobilised to form Self Help Group so that they can avail the benefits of NRLM for their overall development. Including these vulnerable people under SHG fold under SRLM would bring out the chance for them to live with dignity as they would be supported with Start-up, RF and CIF to enhance their livelihood and increase the source of income and reduce their vulnerability.

 

Sl. No.	Indicators	Target 2024-25	Ach. 2024-25	Cum Progress up to March 2025
1	Number of blocks in which SI activities initiated	34	34	34
2	No. of VO completed their Vulnerability Mapping Exercises	381	276	381
3	Number of CLFs in which SI activities initiated	34	34	34
4	No of CLF SACs trained on SISD	33	20	34
5	No of VO SACs trained on SISD	484	484	484
6	No. of elderly SHGs promoted ( 100 % members above 55 years )	40	4	51
7	No. of Elderly members mobilized	320	35	476

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GENDER INTERVENTION

Gender Intervention is being implemented in all 34 blocks. The intervention is to be implemented through trainings and awareness programme that are already been approved by NRLM through 17 modules. This intervention intends to change the behavioural pattern of the community in terms of Gender role, Gender based violence etc. A mass awareness is being carried out every year to create awareness on Gender based violence, PoSH etc in convergence with many line departments like WCD, Social Welfare, SLSA etc.

Sl. No.	Indicators	Target 2024-25	Ach. 2024-25	Cumulative Progress  till March 2025
1	No. of Gender CRP trained and deployed	164	236	236
2	No of MCLFs trained on V3 (Gender)	0	0	33
3	Number of  BMMUs in which ICCs are constituted	0	0	34
4	Number of CLFs to be covered Annual Gender Campaign	33	34	34
5	Number of Vos to be covered in Annual Gender Campaign	484	484	484
6	No. of blocks conducting activities as per GOS (Institutional mechanism & addressing issues)	34	34	34

 

SRLM - Financial Inclusion

Making poor the preferred clients of the banking system and mobilizing bank credit is the core of our financial inclusion and investment strategy. Access to repeat finance at affordable price and in desired amounts and convenient repayment terms is critical for poor to smoothen consumption, come out of debt-trap and invest in livelihoods assets (acquisition, renewal, and expansion).

1. SHG Credit Linkage

Financial inclusion under DAY-NRLM enables each SHG to be linked to banks and access all financial services from the banks, including loans.
DAY-NRLM intervenes on both demand and supply sides to promote financial inclusion. On the demand side, the Mission promotes financial literacy among the poor and provides catalytic capital to the SHGs and their federations. On the supply side, it coordinates with the banking institutions, encourages use of digital financial technologies, identifies and promotes SHG members as Business Correspondent Agents (BCAs) and community facilitators like ‘Bank Sakhis’. The volume of credit accessed by SHGs over the years has seen an exponential increase whereas the sustained efforts made by the program to promote timely repayment of loans by the SHGs has led to a decline in the Non Performing Asset.

 

Financial Year	No of SHGs Credit Linked in Sikkim	Amount Disbursed (In Lakhs)
FY 2017-18	820	696.68
FY 2018-19	1269	1182.31
FY 2019-20	930	1260.94
FY 2020-21	959	1451
FY 2021-22	1065	1992.80
FY 2022-23	1203	3032.29
FY 2023-24	1500	4700
FY 2024-25	1645	5613.62
TOTAL	9391	19929.64

 

 

2. Insurance & Pensions

Poor households face more vulnerabilities and risks in the form of death, loss of assets, unstable income sources, health issues, accidents, other unforeseen incidents etc. and such incidents erode most of the accumulated wealth and compel them to borrow at higher rate to fulfil those immediate needs which force them back in to the vicious cycle of poverty. Further, Old age Poverty is an increasing concern due to no/limited income sources & negligible pension coverage. In the mentioned context, risk coverage of SHGs’ households has become crucial for meaningful poverty elimination under DAY-NRLM.

 

• PMJJBY (18-50yrs)

Target Members for PMJJBY	PMJJBY Enrolled	PMJJBY Enrolled %
35000	28572	81.63

 

• PMSBY (18-70yrs)

Target Members for PMSBY	PMSBY Enrolled	PMSBY Enrolled %
47500	35630	75.01

 

3. Financial Literacy

Banking & financial services are dynamic in nature and the country has witnessed major developments in these sectors in the last 4-5 years with the launch of schemes such as Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY), Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY), Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY), Atal Pension Yojana (APY), MUDRA etc. Most of these financial products are targeted towards poor and hence the SHG households are required to be made aware about these schemes to facilitate them avail the services.

Sikkim SRLM has 197 Financial Literacy Community Resource Persons to conduct regular & need based awareness camps in villages in a batch of 30 to 50 SHG members with the help of SHGs and their federations.

 

10 SHG members have been employed by CRISIL Foundation under Reserve Bank of India, Gangtok as Area Manager and Field Coordinator.

 

4. SHG members as Business Correspondents.

 

Sikkim SRLM has successfully enrolled 15 Bank Sakhi into Business Correspondents and 50 Bank Sakhi into Digipay Sakhi as a part of Digital Transactions initiative in providing the last mile delivery of financial services in remote rural areas where people do not have much access to banking services, through promotion of digital finance and deployment of SHG Women as Banking Correspondent Sakhi (BC Sakhis), with the support of banks and Common Service Centres. Women SHG members deployed as Business Correspondents (termed ‘BC Sakhi) are delivering critical financial services at the doorstep of customers. The distinct advantages offered by this model are:

1. More women in rural areas have access to doorstep financial services through female Business correspondents;
2. SHGs and their members transacting on the BC channel get integrated into the formal financial system which helps in creating their individual transaction history enabling them to become more bankable;
3. Easier access to basic banking services including withdrawal of pensions, scholarships, wages and other DBT benefits;
4. Improved penetration of Insurance and pension services into rural households; and
5. The model proves to be more sustainable business model for banking agents as the women selected are from local area which improves penetration and long-term availability of financial services in rural areas.

 

 

5. NPA (Non Performing Asset)

S. No	State	Outstanding		NPA		% of NPA
		No. of Account	Amount	No. of Account	NPA Amount	No. of Account	NPA Amount
1.	Sikkim	2172	5598.93	36	26.73	1.66	0.48

                                                                                                    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                  TARGET VS ACHIEVEMENT (FY 2024-25)

SL.NO	Financial Inclusion  2025-26 (INDICATORS)	Target 2024-25	Ach. 2024-25 upto Dec 2024	Cum. Achievement
A	SHG Bank Linkage
1	No. of SHG credit linked  (No)	3000	1645	9319
2	Amount Disbursed (Rs. Cr)	50	56.14	19929.64
3	No. of Branch Managers/Officials  trained (No)	72	72	79
B	Financial Literacy  (FL)
4	No. of SHGs trained on FL (No)	2800	2600	3200
5	No. of SHG members trained on FL  (No)	20000	8212	30000
6	No. of SAKSHAM Centre to be established  (No)	10	10	20
C	Insurance & Pension
7	No. of SHG members covered under accidental insurance (PMSBY/state scheme)(In lakh)	50000	35630	35011
8	No. of SHG members covered under life insurance (PMJJBY/State scheme)(In Lakh)	38000	28572	28289
9	No. of SHG members covered under health insurance (PM-JAY/state scheme) (In Lakh)	10000	4330	4330
10	No. of SHG members subscribed to Pension products (APY/Other product) (In lakh)	10000	973	973
D	Digital Finance
11	No.of full -fledged BC Sakhi placed (No)	134	2	15
12	No. of BCs with 250/more transctions per month (No)	140	2	2
13	Number of digital transaction estimated during the year (in lakhs)	1.64	0.88	1.95
14	Total value (amount) of digital transaction estimated during the year (in lakhs)	2457	613	2093
E	Enterprise Financing
15	No. of Vitta Sakhi placed  (No)	31	15	15
16	No. of SHG members financed for setting up individual enterprises (with SHG's internal funds) (No)	3000	1000	1000
17	Amount Financed (With SHGs Internal funds)  (In Lakhs)	900	300	300

FARM LIVELIHOOD

Overview and Context

Sikkim, India's least populous and second smallest state, is known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and organic farming practices. The state's economy is primarily agrarian, supplemented by tourism, handloom, handicrafts, and agro-based industries. With a strong focus on rural development and women empowerment, Self-Help Groups (SHGs) have emerged as a driving force in fostering sustainable livelihoods for women across the state.

The Government of Sikkim, through the Sikkim Rural Livelihood Mission (SRLM), has been actively promoting economic opportunities for rural women by integrating them into income-generating activities across farm and non-farm sectors. These initiatives aim to enhance financial independence, build entrepreneurial skills, and improve the overall socio-economic status of women-led SHGs.

Vision Statement for Farm Livelihoods Interventions

“To empower rural communities of Sikkim through sustainable livelihood opportunities, fostering self reliance, inclusivity and economic growth while preserving Sikkim’s organic and ecological heritage

Goal for the Livelihoods Perspective

Sustainable Livelihood Generation Promote diversified and sustainable income generating activities leveraging Sikkim’s organic and eco friendly practices.

Formation and strengthening of Producer Groups Support the small and marginal women farmers for aggregation and localized marketing activities

Market driven approach Facilitate market access and linkages for rural producers, ensuring premium prices and reducing dependency on intermediaries.

Skill  Development and Capacity Building Enhance the knowledge and skills of rural communities to adapt to emerging livelihood opportunities, particularly in organic farming and high-quality product development.

Promotion of Organic products Position Sikkim’s organic products as premium, high quality goods in regional, national, and international markets.

Convergence with Government schemes Leverage and align with state and central government programmes for more impact and resource optimization.

Livelihood Opportunities for SHG Women in Sikkim

Farm-Based Livelihoods

Given Sikkim's organic farming status and favorable agro-climatic conditions, farm-based livelihoods form the backbone of rural women’s economic activities. Key areas of engagement include:

 

 

 

• Organic Farming & Horticulture:

SHG women are engaged in cultivating organic vegetables, medicinal plants, spices (cardamom, ginger, turmeric), and fruits (kiwi, orange, passion fruit). These organic products have significant market potential both nationally and internationally.

 

• Dairy & Livestock Farming:

Women-led SHGs are actively involved in dairy farming, poultry, and goat rearing, contributing to local milk production and livestock-based enterprises. The promotion of dairy cooperatives has further strengthened their role in the sector.

• Bee-Keeping & Honey Production:

With the rising demand for organic honey, beekeeping has emerged as a lucrative venture for SHG women, providing them with sustainable income opportunities.

• Agro-Processing & Value Addition:

SHG women are being trained in food processing and value addition activities such as making pickles, jams, herbal teas, dried fruits, and spices. This sector has immense potential in expanding rural income sources.

FOCUS AREAS:

• Achievement of Lakhpati Didi target.
• Promotion of Producer Groups.
• Implementation of IFC.
• Training and Capacity Building of Livelihood Cadre.
• Training and capacity building of BMMU and SMMU staffs in sustainable livelihoods.
• Training and capacity building of Lakhpati CRPs.
• Livestock Cluster Development
• Sub Sector Interventions
• Exposure visit for IFC , Cluster Developments,

OUTREACH of Farm Livelihood Interventions in Sikkim SHG Fold:

To enhance the impact of farm livelihood initiatives under Sikkim SRLM, priority may be given to increasing outreach through a saturation approach. This strategy aims to ensure that a higher proportion of rural households, especially those engaged in SHGs, are integrated into structured farm livelihood interventions.

 

Key Priorities for Outreach Expansion in FY 2024-25

1. Targeted Coverage Expansion:
   • Increase outreach to unreached SHG households through awareness and mobilization campaigns.
   • Strengthen engagement with existing SHGs to integrate more members into structured farm livelihoods.
2. Cluster-Based Saturation Approach:
   • Identify high-potential farm clusters and promote sectoral convergence for enhanced productivity and market linkages.
   • Facilitate common aggregation points for collective farming, organic certification, and bulk marketing.
3. Livelihood Diversification:
   • Promote diverse farm activities such as organic farming, livestock rearing, agro-processing, and beekeeping.
   • Strengthen agro-allied enterprises such as mushroom cultivation, dairy cooperatives, and medicinal plant cultivation.
4. Capacity Building & Skill Development:
   • Provide structured training programs on improved farming techniques, post-harvest management, and value addition.
   • Leverage digital and field-based training modules for better knowledge dissemination.
5. Market Linkages & Value Chain Strengthening:
   • Facilitate direct market linkages through government and private-sector partnerships.
   • Promote branding and marketing of SHG farm products.

Key Milestones under Lakhpati Didi

Sr.	Particular	Details
1	Target Number of Lakhpati Didis (As per letter issued by MORD)	14000
2	Number of Lakhpati Didis developed (31/12/24)	6080
3	Target for FY 2025-26	10000
4	Potential Lakhpati Didis identified (on which work will be done in FY 2025-26)	5121
5	Digital Aajeevika register entry completed	13278
6	CRPs and (SRPs) to be trained/refresher training	351
7	State/UT-level convergence committee functional (Y/N) (no. of meetings held)	N

 

 

 

Strategy for Lakhpati Didi

1. Institution Building/Capacity Building (IB/CB)

• Training and Workshops: Conduct regular training sessions on financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and skill development tailored to the needs of women.
• Strengthening of Self-Help Groups (SHGs): Facilitate the strengthening of SHGs to foster peer support and collective learning.
• Leadership Development: Empower women through leadership training programs to enhance their role in decision-making processes within SHGs and community institutions.

2. Financial Inclusion (FI)

• Access to Financial Services: Ensure access to formal banking services, micro-credit, and insurance products tailored for women entrepreneurs.
• Promotion of Savings: Encourage savings habits through financial education and incentives for regular savings contributions.

3. Livelihoods (Farm and Non-Farm)

• Agricultural Interventions: Provide training, inputs, and market linkages for sustainable agriculture practices, focusing on crops suitable for local conditions.
• Diversification: Promote non-farm livelihood activities such as handicrafts, small-scale manufacturing, and service-oriented enterprises to create alternative income sources.

4. Convergence & Partnership

• Government Schemes: Facilitate access to various government schemes related to agriculture, rural development, and women empowerment.
• Private Sector Engagement: Forge partnerships with private companies for skill development, market access, and value chain integration.
• NGO Collaboration: Collaborate with NGOs for implementation support, community mobilization, and leveraging additional resources.

 

CURRENT STATUS OF OUTREACH AND PLAN

Outreach (Geographic - block/ village, HH)

Figures are in cumulative numbers till December  2024
Sr.	Particular	Total in the State	Covered under NRLM	NRLM saturation % (4/3)
1	2	3	4	5
1	No. of District	6	6	100.00%
2	No. of Blocks	34	34	100.00%
3	No. of Villages	1,147	1,147	100.00%
4	No. of HHs (lakh number)	59147	50,458	85.31%

 

ACTIVITY WISE PROGRESS IN FY 2024-25 AND PLAN FOR FY 2025-26

FARM LIVELIHOOD 29 INDICATORS

Table-2. 29 Indicators wise target

Sr No.	Indicators	Progress as on March 2024	Target for 2024-25	Achieved 24-25	% Achi (4/3)	Cumulative Achievement
	1	2	3	4	5	6=2+4
1	No. of Mahila Kisans covered under AEP interventions	33,019	5000	3308	66%	36327
2	No of Mahila Kisan supported under livestock interventions	26,425	5000	3244	65%	29669
3	No. of blocks entered under farm livelihoods interventions	33	0	1	0%	34
4	No of Krishi Sakhis (Agriculture CRP) positioned	197	0	0	0%	197
5	No of Pasu Sakhis (Livestock CRP) positioned	197	0	0	0%	197
6	No of Krishi Udyog Sakhi positioned	24	24	24	100%	44
7	No. of districts entered under farm livelihoods interventions	6	0	0	0%	6
8	No. of Villages covered under farm livelihoods interventions	1,147	0	0	0%	1147
9	No of other livelihoods CRPs positioned	16	0	0	0%	16
10	No of blocks covered under organic	33	0	1	0%	34
11	No of Mahila Kisan adopted at least three essential AEP practices	29,456	5000	3017	60%	32473
12	No. of mahila kisan House hold having agrinutri garden	48,189	0	250	0%	48439
13	No of villages under organic farming	1,147	0	0	0%	1147
14	No. of Producer Groups promoted (PG) for forward linkage & marketing	119	60	47	78%	166
15	Mahila Kisans covered by producer Groups	3,100	1200	940	78%	4040
16	No of PGs given fund against business plan	79	60	15	25%	94
17	No. of organic vegetable retail outletsopened up to help farmers sell their produce	0	0	34	0%	34

 

 

 

Integrated Farming Cluster under SRLM-AAP, MKSP etc.

Physical Progress on IFC Interventions

Sr. No	Particulars	Allocation till 2023-24	Target for 2024-25	Achievement
	1	2	3	4=3+2
1	No. of IFC clusters approved	15	15	15
2.1	HHs covered	-	3500	3500
2.2	Villages covered	-	73	73
2.3	Blocks covered	-	4	4
2.4	Districts covered	-	2	2
3.1	No. of LSC (Livelihoods Service Centre)	-	15	-
4.1	No. of IFC anchors deployed	-	4	4
4.2	No. of Senior CRPs deployed	-	15	15

 

 

Producer Collectives (PG,PE,FPO)

PRODUCER GROUPS

Progress of Producers Group promoted under DAY-NRLM

Sr.	Particulars	Achievement March 2024	Target for 2024-25	Achievement  FY2024-25	% Achiv. (4/3)	Cummulative Achievement
	1	2	3	4	5	6
1	Number of   Producers Groups (PG) formed [for post farm gate value chain interventions]	119	60	47	78	166
2	Members mobilised into PGs	3100	1200	940	78	4040
3	No. of Udyog   Mitra trained and deployed	24	24	14	58	90
4	Identification and training of Master Udyog Sakhi	0	0	0	0	0
5	No. of PGs received funds	79	60	15	25	94
6	Total Funds   released to PGs (Rs Lakhs) from CLF	118.5	90	22.5	25	141
6.1	For infrastructure support	118.5	90	22.5	25	141
6.2	For working   capital support	0	0	0	0	0
7	Total turnover of all the PGs	187.18	151.4	126.56	83	313.18

 

 

Millet Interventions

 

Progress on Millet Interventions

 

Sr.	Particulars	As on March 2024	Plan for FY 2024-25	Achievement in FY 2024-25
1	2	3	4	5
1	No. of districts	6	6	6
2	No. of blocks	22	22	22
3	No. of clusters	0	0	0
4	No. of villages	400	118	145
5	Households covered	4000	1500	2850
6	Areas in Acres	100	33.5	60

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Leverage support through Convergence & Partnership

 

State Level Convergence

Sl. No	Name of the Department	Achievement till Dec. 2024 ( No. of HHs)	Plan FY 2025-26
			Targeted HHs for coverage	Amount leveraged (In lakh)
1	2	3	5	6
1	MoRD- MGNREGS	1300	1200	500
2	Ministry of Agriculture (MAC&FW)	2530	3000	50
3	Department of Animal Husbandry (DAHD)	5732	10000	12.06
4	Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) – TRIFED	24324	1700	95
5	Ministry of Fishery	11890	100	50

 

 

  

Training of PG Leaders on Organizational Management and Books of Record  

Four batches of A HELP training organized for Pashu Sakhis in collaboration with Department of AH&VS

Promotion of Agri Nutri Garden

      

SHG members involved in rearing of cattle and backyard poultry

 

 

NON-FARM LIVELIHOOD INTERVENTIONS

Non-Farm Livelihoods

To diversify income sources, SRLM has been encouraging SHG women to explore non-farm livelihood opportunities, including:

• Handloom & Handicrafts:

Sikkim is home to a rich tradition of weaving and handicrafts, including Lepcha and Bhutia handloom textiles, bamboo crafts, wood carving, and Thangka painting. SHG women are being supported to commercialize these crafts through branding and market linkages.

• Food-Based Enterprises:

Under this initiative, SHG women-run kitchens provide traditional, hygienic, and organic food, catering to tourists, schools, and offices.

 

• Eco-Tourism & Homestays:

Women-led SHG homestays are thriving in rural Sikkim, providing tourists with authentic cultural experiences. Training in hospitality management, eco-tourism practices, and digital marketing is helping them enhance their business potential.

 

• Tailoring & Embroidery Units:

SHG women are involved in tailoring, designing, and embroidery work, supplying school uniforms, traditional dresses, and customized clothing items.

• Digital & E-Commerce-Based Livelihoods:

With the growing influence of digital platforms, SHG women are being trained in online selling, social media marketing, and digital payment systems to reach wider markets.

 

Sub- schemes under Non Farm Livelihood sector:

Start-Up Village Entrepreneurship Programme (SVEP)

 

Start-up Village Entrepreneurship Programme (SVEP), the sub-scheme under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana - National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) has the objective of helping rural households including women to set-up enterprises. SVEP was introduced in Sikkim in the FY 2020-21 for Pakyong SVEP block which combines Pakyong, Rhenock and Parakha blocks. National Resource Organization, Kudumbashree under State Poverty Eradication Mission, Govt. of Kerela has been approved as the Project Implementing Agency in Sikkim.

Skill building support is provided to all the entrepreneurs supported under Start-up Village Entrepreneurship Programme through Community Resource Persons for Enterprise Promotion (CRP-EP).

A Detailed Project Report (DPR) has been prepared for Pakyong SVEP block according to which the total enterprises to be supported under SVEP is 1110 in four years. So far, 237 enterprises have been formed and are running full fledged with handholding support of CRP-EPs. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1. Key learnings

 

1. CRP EPs hold the main reins to enterprise promotion and capacity building of the CRPs is of utmost importance.
2. The BRC has been established keeping in mind the convenience of the entrepreneurs and the BEPC committee has to be strengthened.
3. Convergence with Line departments is one of the areas which can bring new enterprises.
4. Business Plan and Viability Plan has to be carried out with uttermost sincerity for the success of any enterprise.
5. Bank linkage is an important aspect for the success of the project. 
6. Entrepreneurs are to be provided with handholding support until they are fully sustainable.

 

2. Key activities planned under SVEP

 

1. Capacity Building Trainings to potential entrepreneurs on Food Business Management with the help of Café Mentors from NRO Kudumbashree and start atleast 2 model food based enterprises in the block.
2. Achieve the target of promoting 550 enterprises in the block.
3. Identify capacities of all CRP-EPs based on their activities and divide the CRP-EPs under different domains like group of ME formalization, group for branding, packaging and marketing etc.
4. Provide Domain specific training from external agencies and institutions
5. Plan exposure visit for the CRPEPs to different kinds of SVEP Enterprises and interaction with CRPEP group in the blocks
6. All the possible value chain development training will provide  to the food based enterprises
7. Provide upgraded training to the Service sector enterprise in convergence with respective department
8. Make a yearly calendar for the important festivals for  which festival markets can be arranged
9. Additional Funding support will be providing with the help of state government schemes and Banks
10. Facilitate more governmental Schemes like PMFME, State start up and Seed Cell, etc.

 

 

Aajeevika Grameen Express Yojana (AGEY)

 

 “Aajeevika Grameen Express Yojana (AGEY)” is a sub scheme of the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM). The Self Help Groups and SHG members under NRLM operate road transport service in backward areas. The objective of the scheme is to help provide safe, affordable and community monitored rural transport services to connect remote villages with key services and amenities (such as access to markets, education and health) for the overall economic development of backward rural areas. This will also provide an additional avenue of livelihood for SHGs. AGEY was implemented in Sikkim since FY 2017-18 firstly in two blocks with 5 vehicles. The AGEY vehicles have then been increased to 23 vehicles in 20 blocks.

Three more vehicles have been procured after full repayment of the AGEY vehicle by the previous beneficiary making the total AGEY vehicles in the state to 26.

An evaluation of AGEY implementation in states was conducted by NIRD&PR to see whether the scheme has achieved its desired objectives.

The main objectives of the study include:

Understand and analyze the overall impact of the scheme on the livelihoods of the targeted communities. 

• Identify implementation gaps and provide recommendations for improvement. 
• Assess the outcome of the scheme on rural connectivity in remote areas.
• The evaluation study covered samples from across the states.

The evaluation team had developed a questionnaire and the data collection was completed by CRPs. The report of the evaluation is yet to be received by SRLM.

 

 

PM Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprise Scheme (PMFME)

 

Ministry of Food Processing Industry (MoFPI) launched the Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro food processing Enterprises (PMFME) scheme under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan with the aim to enhance the competitiveness of existing individual micro-enterprises in the unorganized segment of the food processing industry and promote formalization of the sector.

The PMFME scheme support has been provided to the SHGs and SHG members of Sikkim in terms of Seed capital @ Rs. 40,000/- per SHG member for working capital and purchase of small tools. There are other supports under PMFME that are also being availed by SHGs and SHG members.

SRLM SHGs under the scheme of Prime Minister Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprise Scheme (PMFME) availed the seed capital fund for 763 members amounting of Rs 399.2 lakhs.

 

1. Key learnings

 

1. Food Processing Enterprises have an untapped potential that has been brought forward by this scheme.
2. FSSAI Certification is mandatory for all food based enterprises and which is now being given much needed attention.
3. CRPs are to be strengthened to give handholding support to the entrepreneurs.
4. Village level products can be given global recognition with the use of proper channels and e marketing.

 

 

FSSAI CERTIFICATION FOR SHG ENTERPRISES
 

The Livelihood team under SRLM is working with SHGs to promote entrepreneurship and value chain especially with Micro Food Processing activities in rural Sikkim. Handholding support is being provided to the rural women till they are running full fledged businesses. So far, 172 FSSAI licenses have been issued for Food based enterprises owned and operated by SHG members.

 

 

 

MICRO ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT (MED)

 

Sikkim Rural Livelihood Mission has proposed the implementation of Micro Enterprise Development (MED) in Sikkim in the Annual Action Plan and Budget. Micro Enterprise Development (MED) is a new initiative of NRLM to promote non- farm activities in Non- SVEP blocks. The proposal is based on expanding the CRPs-EP based SVEP approach in the Non-SVEP blocks as part of the Non-Farm Expansion.

MED was proposed for implementation in two blocks of Soreng district and two blocks of Namchi district .

1. Key learnings

1. Village Tourism is one area which can be explored and enterprises can be set up based on the gap areas.
2. Enterprises based on manufacturing of value added horti-products
3. More emphasis on development of artisans and their handmade products
4. Explore the marketing of Organic products of Sikkim

 

2. Strategies for implementation

1. Deploy CRPs and focus on their capacity building.
2. Selection of Master CRPs and using them to train CRP- EPs and form viable enterprises.
3. Replicate the SVEP processes in all blocks and form enterprises using CRP-EPs
4. Skill based trainings to interested SHG women and handhold them for enterprise promotion.
5. Onboarding of SHG products on E-Marketing platforms for marketing on a global scale.

 

SHG Product Marketing

 

1. E- Marketing:

 

1. The Sikkim Rural Livelihoods Mission has recently ventured into e- marketing for sale of Self-Help Group products in collaboration with Kalgudi and Ripples of Change Foundation through their e- marketing online platform. The e-marketing of Sikkim SHGs products are taken up in the brand name of “Swayam Sikkim”.
2. Swayam Sikkim is an initiative taken by Sikkim Rural Livelihoods Mission to capacitate and enable SHGs to manage online marketing on their own and thereby make them more self-reliant and self- sustained. 
3. To this purpose, orientation for the state and block staffs has been completed and data colledction for SHG product onboarding was started since August 2021. Products from SHGs have been srcutinized for all criteria fulfilment and selected for onboarding on Kalgudi platform.
4. SHG products/SKUs under six categories are online for sale with multiple variants of different Self Help Groups have been onboarded under Swayam Sikkim. Swayam Sikkim products are available online for sale from www.swayamsikkim.com since 20^th October 2021.

 

 

2. Rural Artisan Marketing Centre (RAMC):

 

1. Sikkim SRLM has a retail unit at Gangtok and sells SHG products mostly handloom and handicraft items.
2. It caters to the local crowd of Sikkim and the tourist visiting the local market.
3. The RAMC will also provide support to the Fulfillment Centre of Swayam Sikkim.

 

3. Sale of Articles and Rural Artisan Society (SARAS) Fairs:

 

4. SHG products are put up for sale in 14^th SARAS fair in the financial year 2024-25 that is organized every year at Jorethang, South Sikkim during the celebration of Maghey Sakranti at Maghey Mela.
5. SHGs are also encouraged to visit other states for SARAS fairs and sell their products. Sikkim SRLM SHG members participated in four SARAS fairs this year.

 

Traditional SHG Huts at MG Marg, Gangtok has been installed for promotion of organic farm and non farm products of Sikkim. Two stalls in prime location has helped to provide exposure to SHG products. Tourists from across the country and abroad visit MG Marg in Lakhs.

SHG Tailoring Groups facilitated by Sikkim State Rural Livelihoods Mission under Rural Development Department has been stitching school uniform awarded by Education Department. So far, Sikkim SRLM SHG Tailoring Groups has received 5 consignments of school uniform stitching works in four academic years amounting a total of Rs 506.58 Lakh/-. The Tailoring Groups are highly skilled now and are requesting 100 percent of work order in the future.

SHG members stitching uniforms at their respective stations

 

Didi Bahini ko BhansaGhar:

Didi Bahini ko Bhansa Ghar is an initiative under Sikkim SRLM that focuses on empowering rural women by promoting their culinary skills, supporting entrepreneurship, and providing market linkages. This initiative aims to strengthen and streamline the food service industry while preserving the rich culinary heritage of Sikkim and promoting sustainable livelihoods for Self-Help Group (SHG) members.

Didi Bahini ko Bhansa Ghar (DBkoB) was first operationalized during the 14th Sikkim SARAS Trade Fair held at Jorethang during the Maghey Sakranti Mela from 14th to 23rd January 2025. The initiative received an overwhelming response, showcasing the potential of SHG-led food services in contributing to women’s empowerment and economic growth.

Encouraged by its success, Sikkim SRLM is focusing on the development of DBkoB as a distinctive brand. On the occasion of International Women's Day, Sikkim SRLM launched the Didi Bahini ko Bhansa Ghar (DBkoB) on 8th March 2025 at Saramsa Garden, Ranipool in the presence of the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Sikkim, Shri Prem Singh Tamang.

Non Farm Livelihood Progress and Plan:

#	Particulars	Unit Description	Cumu. achievement till March 2024	Target (FY 2024-25)	Ach. (FY-2024-25) till 31st Dec 2024	Ach. from Jan till March 2025		Cumu. achievement (2024-25)
1	Districts Coverage
1	Total Districts in the state	Number	6	0	0	0		0
2	Districts covered under Component K - NRLM AAP	Number	5	1	0	1		1
3	Total Districts covered	Number	6	0	0	0		0
4	Percentage coverage	Percentage	100%	0%	0%	0%		0%
2	Blocks coverage
1	Total Blocks in the state	Number	34	1	1	0		1
2	Blocks covered under Component K - NRLM AAP	Number	24	0	0	0		0
3	Total Blocks Covered	Number	33	1	1	0		0
4	Percentage coverage	Percentage	97%	0%	0%	0%		0%
3	Household coverage
1	Total no. HH in SHG fold	Number	50,458	5,000	4410	0		4410
2	HH covered in component K - NRLM AAP	Number	639	600	238	350		588
3	HH covered under NRLM AAP (excluding component K & NRETP)	Number	26,538	843	595	200		795
4	Total HH covered under NFL	Number	27,177	1443	833	550		1383
5	Percentage coverage	Percentage	53%	17%	13%	0%		18%
4	Status of SVEP umbrella projects
1	SVEP AAP approved	No. of Blocks	1	0	0	0		0
2	MED approved	No. of Blocks	1	4	4	0		4
3	AGEY approved	No. of Blocks	20	33	0	10		10
5	Status of DPRs/Proposals under K component
1	Proposal AGEY submitted	No. of Blocks	23	60	10	0		10
2	Proposals AGEY approved	No. of Blocks	23	60	0	10		10
6	AGEY
1	No of implementing blocks	No. of Blocks	20	33	0	10	10
2	No. of Vehicles procured	No. of vehicles	23	60	0	10	10
3	No. of CLFs/PE as beneficiary	No. of CLFs/PE	0	0	0	0	0
4	No. of Individuals as beneficiary	No. of individuals	23	60	0	10	10
5	No. of beneficiaries repaid their loan to SHGs	No. of beneficiaries	0	10	12	5	17
6	No. of beneficiaires started repaying their loan	No. of beneficiaries	23	0	0	0	0
7	Marketing & Sales
1	Aggregators cum sales outlet	Number	0	1	0	1	1
2	Total sales	Amount (in lakhs)	0.00	0.00	0.00	0.00	0
3	E-commerce platform (if the State has its own platform)	Number	1	0	0	0	0
4	No. of E-commerce platform State is working with	Number	1	0	0	0	0
5	Sales through E-commerce platform (combined)	Amount (in lakhs)	1.10	2.00	1.80	0.50	2.3
6	No. of SARAS exhibition organized	Number	13	1	0	1	1
7	Artisan/entrepreneurs participated in State level exhibitions	Number	1954	270	0	258	258
8	Sales through state level exhibition	Amount (in lakhs)	522.22	100.00	0.00	67.49	67.49
9	Artisan/entrepreneurs participated in National level exhibitions	Number	138	20	16	6	22
10	Sales through national level exhibition	Amount (in lakhs)	48.68	7.00	5.60	2.10	7.70
11	Other exhibitions participated (if any)	Number	2	1	1	0	1
12	Sales through other exhibitions	Amount (in lakhs)	3.00	1.50	1.50	0.00	1.50
8	Skilling of Entrepreneurs/Artisans - Trade specific
1	Entrepreneurs received skill training from RSETI	No. of Entrepreneurs	0	0	120	25	145
2	Potential SHG women identified as trainers	No. of Master trainers	0	0	4	0	4
9	Enterprises supported (received financial support)
1	Individual enterprises under SVEP	No. of enterprises	304	506	238	146	384
2	Group enterprises under SVEP	No. of enterprises	17	44	0	4	4
3	Individual enterprises under MED	No. of enterprises	0	45	0	45	45
4	Group enterprises under MED	No. of enterprises	0	5	0	5	5
5	Individual enterprises under  NRLM AAP except component K	No. of enterprises	640	260	567	190	757
6	Group enterprises under SVEP NRLM AAP except component K	No. of enterprises	40	20	28	10	38
10	Enterprise Financing - Bank loan to enterprise
1	Enterprises SVEP	No. of enterprises	0	10	5	2	7
2	Bank loan received	Amount	0.00	15.00	7.00	3.00	10.00
3	Enterprises MED	No. of enterprises	0	5	0	5	5
4	Bank loan received	Amount	0.00	0.00	0.00	0.00	0.00
5	Enterprises supported except Component K	No. of enterprises	0	90	0	0	0
6	Bank loan received	Amount	0.00	45.00	0.00	0.00	0.00
11	Compliances and certification
1	Udyam registration under SVEP	No. of enterprises	0	0	36	0	36
2	FSSAI registration	No. of enterprises	142	20	30	0	30
12	Convergence
1	SHG individual/groups receied seed fund (PMFME)	No. of processing units	998	542	0	542	542
2	SHG individual/group received bank loan(Higher order enterprises)	No. of processing units	0	2	0	0	0
3	No. of entrepreneurs received training	No. of entrepreneurs	50	150	200	0	200
4	FSSAI registration PMFME	No. of processing units	142	200	30	10	40
5	No. of entrepreneurs received PMEGP loans from bank	No of entrepreneurs	0	0	0	0	0
6	Bank loan to higher order enterprises	Amount	0	0	0	0	0
7	Subsidy received by higher order enterprises	Amount	0	0	0	0	0
13	Making of Lakhpati Didi
1	Potential LakhpatiDidis (PLDs) under Non-farm livelihoods	No. of Didis	0	2000	2893	0	2893
2	Engaged in services	No. of Didis	0	1000	1189	0	1189
3	Engaged in manufacturing	No. of Didis	0	500	350	0	350
4	Engaged in trading	No. of Didis	0	1000	1354	0	1354
5	Mapped under NRLM AAP	No. of Didis	0	2500	2607	0	2607
6	Business plan prepared	No. of Didis	0	1000	1205	0	1205
7	LakhpatiDidis under Non-farm livelihoods	No.ofDidis	1354	2000	2607	0	2607

 

  

Sikkim SRLM receiving the SKOCH National Award 2024 at the 100th SKOCH Summit held at India Habitat Centre, New Delhi.

  

SHG members under Sikkim SRLM bagged the "Best Food Court stall" in Cafe Kudumbashree India Food court’ 2025 at Kodikozhi district Kerela

   

Launch of Didi Bahini ko Bhansa Ghar on  the occasion of International Women’s Day’ 2025

 

 

 

Sikkim SRLM organizes 10 days long SARAS Fair’ 2025 during Jorethang Maghey Sakranti Mela

 

Finance and Account (FY 24-25)

 

S. No.	Name of the scheme	Opening  Balances	Fund Received	Actual Expenditure	Closing  Balances
1	NRLM Main	6,63,85,708	12,30,45,000	16,23,02,305	2,71,28,403
	cash & bank balances	6,46,02,047	12,30,45,000	16,05,18,644	2,71,28,403
	Bank Interest	17,83,661	-	17,83,661	-
		-		-	-
GRAND TOTAL		6,63,85,708	12,30,45,000	16,23,02,305	2,71,28,403