Yuksom family home kitchen
Matilde Gattoni
In 2016, the Indian state of Sikkim launched the world's first fully organic state. All of her 760 square kilometers of farmland in this former independent kingdom between Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet is certified organic, and the import or use of chemicals is prohibited.
Farmer separating rice husks from rice
Matilde Gattoni
As climate change forces the world to redefine agricultural priorities, Sikkim's model, based on interaction rather than competition between humans and nature, could lead the way to a more sustainable future.
Buddhist monks in the courtyard of the Tuklakhang Royal Monastery
Matilde Gattoni
According to local authoritiesearly benefits of the organic revolution included increased populations of bees and other wildlife and the revitalization of Sikkim's shallow, dry soils.
Orchid greenhouse at Hidden Forest Retreat, Gangtok
Matilde Gattoni
The changes have also led to a surge in tourism in this hard-to-reach land of high peaks and virgin forests, dotted with Hindu temples, remote Buddhist monasteries and sacred lakes.
Traditional houses in Tinh Vuong village
Matilde Gattoni
The photos are (from top): The kitchen of Yukseom's family home. All vegetables grown in the garden are organic. Farmers separate rice husks from rice in a paddy field on the outskirts of Gangtok. Buddhist monks in the courtyard of the Royal Monastery of Tuklakhang, one of Sikkim's oldest monasteries. Orchid greenhouse at Hidden Forest Retreat in Gangtok. Organic fields surrounding traditional houses in Tinh Vuong village. Tea pickers at Temi Tea Garden, a government-owned organic farm (pictured below).
