'Sikkim Greengrocers' lays out fiery treat

by REBYNA RANA
GANGTOK, 07 May: Dalley, that fiery chilli pepper that the hill folk are so fond of, has found a new promoter in Sikkim Greengrocers, an enterprise of a local youth based out of Lower Sichey, publicity hoardings of which have begun attracting some attention around town. Dalleys, sold at haats fresh off the fields or in their packaged and processed avatars, have always been around, and spicing up the treat are the five new products from Sikkim Greengrocers - Dalley Fire, Dalley Paste, Hot Dalley [with spices], Green Dalley and Mixed Dalley in 200 gm and 400 gm bottles.
30 year old Mahesh Dawari, the proprietor of Sikkim Greengrocers, informs that customer response has been very encouraging throughout the three years that the company has been in existence, and adds that the unit in Lower Sichey near Banjhakri Falls now plans to serve international markets. The fact that the Dalleys are organically grown and hygienically pickled and now also have scientifically endorsed medical benefits, he is convinced has opened a larger market for the value added produce from Sikkim Greengrocers.
“Apart from Sikkim, our products also go to Delhi and Guwahati and we are preparing to explore more markets next year,” he shares.
As for how the company has grown, he informs that when they began in 2011-12, the company packaged some eight quintals. For the current year, the Greengrocers are projecting to lift up to 3.5 tonnes! Needless to add, the unit is staffed by a resourceful team. Its Lower Sichey unit has 10 employees. “Every single employee has been putting in the best effort with complete devotion in accomplishing the aim and targets of Sikkim Greengrocers,” Mr. Dawari shares.
They pick up raw materials once a week directly from farmers at Namphok [South], Namthang [South], Melli etc.
Sikkim Greengrocers was set up with funds secured from the Chief Minister’s Self Employment Generation Scheme and started with an initial investment of Rs. 1.5 Lakhs, Mr. Dawari informs.
He is now hopeful that the government support for local enterprise will facilitate ambitions of units like Sikkim Greengrocers to reach international markets.
Interestingly, Sikkim Greengrocers has also been providing training in food processing to unemployed youths and school drop-outs. Chalk one up for engaged  CSR initiative as well.