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1. Tourism – An Overview

Sikkim is now a popular tourist destination. The State Government has placed tourism as a priority

sector. From the cities to the remote villages, local people have adopted this industry as sustainable

income generator. The efforts of the State Government is commendable in providing better facilities

like roads, power, water and other incentives to make tourism a flourishing industry. The people of

Sikkim are now self-reliant and their economic status has also been enhanced.

During the last several years the inflow of both domestic and foreign visitors has increased to a

significant number i.e 558538 domestic (2012) and 26489 international (2012). This is due to a large

scale development in infrastructure including accommodation, transportation and other facilities.

Promotion of pilgrimage destinations have also been augmented through recent development of

pilgrimage Centers like Siddheshvara Dham in Solophok, and Tathagata Tsal in Rabong, apart from

other religious Centers all over the State.

The State is also harnessing the vast untapped Rural Tourism potential by giving higher impetus on

rural tourism so that its multiple benefits reach out directly to the rural masses. This has created a

new concept that sensitizes visiting the village settings for experiencing a relaxed and healthy

lifestyle. The village tourism concept is fast growing in Sikkim as a responsible and sustainable

tourism product with social objectives through people’s participation.

The State Government has been very effective and successful in educating and guiding the people

regarding tourism on the basic principle of Sustainable Development. There are certain very strong

steps which have been taken up to preserve culture, tradition, heritage and environment /ecology of

the State. A number of well planned Programmes are also being taken up to educate the people by

organizing capacity building programmes for youths and the people associated with tourism sectors.

The Department has organised skill development programmes to the local youth through Hunar Se

Rojgar Tak scheme of Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. Through this programme –

number of local youths have been provided training in various subjects like,-Food production and

Food & Beverage and house keeping. This programme has especially benefitted locals to undertake

Village Tourism in various parts of Sikkim.

In order to facilitate tourism in all parts of the State wayside amenities like cafeterias,

accommodation facilities, public convenience have been constructed. Support facilities like parking,

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waiting sheds, watch towers, beautification of the area, development of circuits, trekking trails

have been enhanced in tourist destinations all over the State.

Sikkim has now made a place in the global tourism market.

2. ADMINISTRATION

The Department of Tourism & Civil Aviation is headed by the Secretary who is assisted byofficers and staff belonging to Sikkim State Civil Service, Sikkim State General Service, Sikkim Finance& Accounts and Sikkim State Engineering Service. The Department has its Head Office at Gangtokand out stationed offices are located at Siliguri, Kolkata and New Delhi. Tourist Information Centersare also located at Namchi, Pelling, Jorethang, Melli, Mangan, Rangpo, Ravangla, Lachen, Damthangand Bagdogra, Darjeeling and New Jalpaiguri in West Bengal during 2010.

Administration wing deals with regular administration and personal management. Policymatters pertaining to the administration are looked after by this wing. During this yearadministration ahd nominated Ms. Nima Choden, assistant Director and Shri Umesh Ra, Balmiki,Safaikarmachari for the “MERITORIOUS AWARD” on the occasion of Republic Day,2013. Out ofwhich Ms. Nima Choden , Asstt. Driector was award for the year 2012-13.

3. PERMIT CELL

The Tourism Department is authorized by the Home Department to issue permits for Nathula Passthrough registered Travel Agencies. With the cooperation from the Home Department and the Army,Nathula is open for Tourists and other visitors for 5 days in a week.

The permit cell has initiated several co-ordination/Sensitization meetings with the TAAS, SAATO, JNRoad Taxi Owners/Drivers Associations and other Stake Holders.

The high level meeting which is the first of its kind to be organized by the Permit Cell with BROProject Swastik Chief TAAS, GNR Association, SAATO Superintendent of Police Check Post TAAS andother Stake Holders regarding smooth and safe movements of tourists to Tsomgo and Nathula Passalong the Jawaharlal Nehru Marg which is being widened by BRO have arrived on system to preventhassles to travelers and allow smooth flow of traffic.

Nathula being at the high altitude there are several landslides and heavy snowfall which creates lotsof road blockages along this region. The permit cell has been taking active part in rescue of theTourists from land slid affected area during odd hours and on several occasions.

The yearly Joint Inspection team consisting of Sr RTO, RTO Motor Vehicle inspector from TransportDepartment, Inspector, Naik from Sadar Police Thana, Tourist Police, Tourist Officer & AssistantDirector from Permit cell Tourism Department had visited JN Road, Taxi Stand, and Tashi view Pointto check the vehicles for overcharging, improper documents, Garbage Bags and condition of thevehicle. Total 89 vehicles were caught by the team out of which 12 vehicles were caught for

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overcharging. These vehicles were taken action on the spot and the required fine was imposed tothem according to the Motor Vehicle Act.

Nominal fee of Rs 50/- per person to be imposed for issuing permit for Yumthang & Tsomgo toforeigners which is to be paid vide Bank receipt under the Tourism Head 1452 Tourism 800/Othershas been approved and notified.

Over and above the collection of revenue for Nathula has increased by more than 50 lakhs ascompared to the prior collection. The details of which has been placed below for information.

Revenue collected and deposited by Permit Cell for Nathula w.e.f April 2013 to December 2014.

DETAILS OF REVENUE COLLECTED FROM NATHULA PERMIT WEF 1ST APRIL 2012 TO 31ST MARCH2013.

MONTH AMOUNT PERMIT ISSUED OFF DAYS ROADBLOCKED

APRIL 4,89,600/- 14 DAYS 9 DAYS 7 DAYSMAY 15,94,200/- 18 DAYS 9 DAYS 4 DAYSJUNE 8,00,400/- 11 DAYS 8 DAYS 11 DAYSJULY 2800/- 10 DAYS 21 DAYSAUGUST 9800/- 8 DAYS 23 DAYSSEPTEMBER 1,13,800/- 17 DAYS 8 DAYS 5 DAYSOCTOBER 11,28,400/- 21 DAYS 10 DAYSNOVEMBER 14,54,200/- 22 DAYS 9 DAYSDECEMBER 10,52,600/- 21 DAYS 9 DAYS 1 DAYSJANUARY 7,14,600/- 21 DAYS 9 DAYS 1 DAYSFEBRUARY 72,400/- 10 DAYS 8 DAYS 10 DAYSMARCH 14,00,200/- 19 DAYS 8 DAYS 4 DAYSTOTAL 105 DAYS 87 DAYS

TOTAL REVENUE COLLECTED FROM NATHULA PERMIT AMOUNTING TO Rs. 88,41,800/-

4. ACCOUNTS SECTION

The Accounts Section is headed by the Chief Accounts Officer. The section also has a Sr. AccountsOfficer, who functions as the Drawing and Disbursing Officer. Besides, the above officers theAccounts Section constitute of the following:-

1. Sr. Accountant 1

2. Accountant 2

3. Jr Accountant 2

4. Accounts Clerk 2

5. Computer Operator 1

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The details of the expenditure & Revenue Receipt during 2012-13 are as under:-

REVENUE RECEIPT (RUPEES IN LAKHS)

YEAR REVENUE RECEIPT2012-13(TILL MARCH) 213.37

BUDGET PROVISION AND EXPENDITURE

Plan (Rupees in lakhs) RemarksBudget Provision 11438.42 The budget provision includes

allocations under TFC amounting toRs. 70.00 crores and ADB projectsamounting to Rs. 20.00 crores. Out ofthe total allocation of Rs. 90.00crores an expenditure of Rs. 3.47crores only was incurred.

Expenditure 2896.31

Non Plan Rupees in lakhsBudget Provision 405.20

Expenditure 425.85

CSS Rupees in lakhsBudget Provision 5106.36

Expenditure 3112.31

5. ASSETS CELL

The assets Cell of Tourism & Civil aviation Department deal and look after the maintenance of therecord of leasing out of the assets of the Department including Wayside Amenities, Bungalow andVillage Huts. Department is leasing out of the properties to the local educated unemployed youth inorder to give opportunity for self employment and earn their livelihood as well as to generaterevenue to the Government.

EAST DISTRICT

Sl.No. NAME OF ASSETS

NAME OFLESSEE PERIOD OF LEASE

MONTHLYRENT

REMARKS

1. GANESH TOKCAFETERIA

CHECHI SHERPA 14.2.2013-31.01.2018 30,006

2. PARKING YARD CHECHI SHERPA 14.2.2013-31.01.2018 25,160

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3. SOUVENIR SHOP PREMITAGURUNG

14.2.2013-31.01.2018 11,059

4. ENCHEY CAFETERIA SASHI PRADHAN 01.06.2009-31.05.2014 2750

5. ARITAR CAFETERIA H.P CHETTRI 1.8.2012-31.07.2017 3500

6. SAJONG CHOTHANGCAFETERIA

SONAM EDEN 01.01.2013-31.12.2017 450

7. OBSERVATORY TOWERCAFÉ.

DIKI DOMA 01.04.2009-31.03.2014 6600

8. ATM GANGTOK SBI 01.06.2010 10,000 Till the demolitionof existing building

9. HOTEL NORKHIL 01.06.1997-31.05.2021 10,98,07510. WISDOM TOURS &

TRAVELSTSHERINGONGMU

01.04.2009-31.03.2010 1,650 Till further ordersubject to thecondition to vacatethe premiseswithin one monthof receipt ofdirection

11. BLUE SKY GIFTSHOP PALZORLACHUNGPA

01.06.2008-31.05.2020 5000

12. PAKYONG CAFETERIA ROSHANPRADHAN

01.09.2009-31.08.2014 500

13. TOURIST FACILITATIONCENTRE, DEORALI

HISSAY CODEN 1.5.2013-30.4..2018 17,700/-PER

QUARTER14. TOURIST RESTING

PLAZA, 14 MILESANGKHOLA

BIJOY PRADHAN 1.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

15. SHERPA TRADITIONALDRESSES

P.T.SHERPA 01.02.2009-31.01.2014 500

16.CAFETERIA LINGDUM

SHERAP TSETENBHUTIA 23.06.2009-31.06.2014 1200

17. RORATHANG PICNICSPOT

RORATHANGPICNIC SPOT 1.10.2009-30.09.2014 500

18. RANGPO MINININGCAFETERIA

CHITRAMANIKHAWAS 1.11.2009-31.10.2014 20,124

19. BAKTHANG FALLSCAFETERIA TSHERING SHERPA 1.1.2010-31.12.2014 4,500

20.WSA KOKOLAY ONGDUP LEPCHA 1.10.2009 - 30-9-2014 2,664

21.ALPINE CAFETERIA WANGDA SHERPA 1.4.2010-31.3.2015 5000/-

22. VIEW TOWER BRIDGECUM-WELCOME GATECAFETERIABALWAKHANI

RAJ MOHANPRADHAN 1.11.2010-31.10.2015 4,600

23. DALAPCHAND HELIPADCAFETERIA SURAJ PRADHAN 1.11.2010 31.10.2015 400

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24.REY MINDU CAFETERIA ONGKITH LEPCHA 1.1.2011-31.12.2015 1,500

25. HIMALAYANZOOLOGICAL PARK

ABIR BAHADURCHETTRI 1.1.2011-31.12.2015 10,177

26. DAFTARBANGLOW,GNATHANG KARMA SHERPA 01.05.2011-30.04.2016 1,500

27. WAYSIDE AMENITYSAJONG

KARMA SONAMDOMA 1.7.2011-30.6.2016 2000

28.TOURST RECEPTIONCENTRE AT RANGPO

M.B LOMBOO &G.M GURUNG 02.12.2013 (20 YEARS) 1,15,000

Enhanced by 5%every year afterthree years

29. ARITAR GUEST HOUSE H.P CHETTRI 1.3.2013-28.2.2018 5000

WEST DISTRICT

1. SINGSHORE BRIDGE MARINA LEPCHA 01.12.2008-30.11.2013 6002. LEGSHIP WSA PRESIDENT LTDC 18003. HEE BERMIOK

G.HOUSERAMKISHORELIMBOO 01.1.2011-31.12.2015 4,650

4.KHECHEPERI T.HUT

TENG HANGLIMBOO 01.08.2009-31.07.2014 1650

5. HEE POOL WATERGARDEN

THUPDENTSHERING BHUTIA 1.5.2013-30.4.2018 1000

6. PHUR-CHA-CHUDEV.HUT SASHI KUMAR RAI 01.02.2009-31.01.2014 1375

7. TASHIDING TREKKERSHUT KUMAR KHARKA 01.03.2009-28.02.2014 2500

8. YATRI NIWAS,TASHIDING KUMAR KHARKA 01.03.2009-28.02.2014 11600

9. PHAMRONG WATERFALLS KUMAR KHARKA 01.03.2009-28.02.2014 160

10. BHOMPOOLRESHIKHOLACAFETERIA

DEPENDRAGURUNG 21.08.2009-31.08.2014 250

11. BASECAMPTIMBURBONG KULMAN SUBBA 1.1.2010-31.12.2014 4403

12. PILGRIMAGE HUTKHECHEPALRI DASRATH RAI 01.02.2010-31.01.2015 800

13. SINGSHORE BRIDGECAFETERIAMANEYBONG SIDE PASSANG SHERPA 1.7.2010-30-06-2015 300

14. HELIPAD CAFETERIA N.K.SUBBA 1.9.2010-31.8.2015 500

SOUTH DISTRICT

1.TARKU CAFETERIA ISHWAR TEWARI 01.10.2010-30.09.2015 1850

2.THALABARI CAFETERIA DIKI DOMA 01.08.2009-31.07.2014 1100

3. RAVANGLA WSA KARMA P.TAKAPA 01.10.1998-30.09.2019 1318

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4.WSA MANPUR,KITAM

SANCHAMAYASUBBA 01.03.2009-28.02.2014 3650

5. CHERRY YATRINIWASLAMATAR

RINCHENGYAMTSO 1.6.2010-31.05.2015 1,04,167

6. SOUVENIR SHOP TICJORETHANG

HANDICRAFT&HANDLOOM 14.1.2010-13.1.2015 500

7.LEPCHA HERITAGECENTRE,SATAM

THINLEYONGCHUKLEPCHA 01.10.2010-30.09.2015 2000

8.SIKKIP TREKKERS' HUT DHIREN RAI 1.1.2011-31.12.2015 500

9. MEDITATION HUTSAMDRUPTSE K.B.GURUNG 1.10.2010-30.11.2015 1500

10. ANGLING &RAFTINGHUT MAMRING MANOJ UPRETI 01.03.2011-28.02.2016 1000

11.AMALEY CAFETERIA

MEENA KUMARITAMNAG 1.6.2012-31.5.2017

12. CAFETERIA AT 8THMILE TEMI ASHOK RAI 1.3.2013-28.2.2018 5000

13. CAFETERIA AT 9THMILE ,TEMI PRATAP TAMANG 1.3.2013-28.2.2018 3500

14.KARFECTAR GUESTHOUSE

PUTRA HANGSUBBA 3.9.2013 (20 YEARS) 58,333


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IHCAE,CHEMCHEY ABHISHEK KARKIFOR A PERIOD OF 20YEARS W.E.F. 1.7.2013 1,37,884


NORTH DISTRICT

1. SEVEN SISTERWATERFALLS KARMA RINZING 01.03.2010-28.02.2015 8000

2. WSA PAKSHEP TENZING CHIME 23.06.2009-31.06.2014 8733. W.S.A.LACHUNG

SINGRINGGYANDENLACHUNPA 07.07.2009-30.06.2014 1000

4. TOONG CAFETERIA CHODUP LEPCHA 1.5.2010-30.4.2015 10005.

BHIMLALA CAFETERIAPENZUMLACUNGPA 1.2.2011-31.01.2016 1000

TSOMGO SHOPPIN COMPLEX

SL.NO. NAME OF LESSEE SHOP NO. PERIOD OF LEASE RENT PER MONTH

1 SONAM DENKA 1 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

2 CHUMJUNG BHUTIA 2 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

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3 LAKEY SHERPA 3 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

4 KESANG DICHEN 4 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

5 PHURPHUTI SHERPA 5 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

6 PURNA BDR.LIMBOO 6 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

7 PHURBA DOMA 7 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

8 RINZING DOMA DOPTAPA 8 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

9 PHURBA TSHERING SHERPA 9 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

10 LAKDOM DOPTHAPA 10 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

11 RITA DOMA SHERPA 11 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

12 GEETA SHERPA 12 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

13 CHANDRA BDR RAI 13 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

14 KARJOK SHERPA 14 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

15 K.B.PRADHAN 15 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

16 DOMA TSHERING 16 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

17 THUPDEN BHUTIA 17 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

18 TAPCHUNG DOPTHAPA 18 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

19 THINLEY CHEZUM 19 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

20 PHURBA SHERPA 20 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

21 REKU DOMA 21 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

22 JIWAN BISWAKARMA 22 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

23 MINGMA DOPTHAPA 23 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

24 GNAWANG DOLMA 24 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

25 SANCHA MAYA 25 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

26 TAMDING DOPTHAPA 26 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

27 SONAM SHERPA 27 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

28 NIMA SHERPA 28 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

29 PHURBA SHERPA 29 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

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30 GURU BHUTIA 30 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

31 PEMA LHAMU SHERPA 31 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

32 KARMA BHUTIA 32 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

33 LOBSANG LHAMU 33 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

34 TENZING BHUTIA 34 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

35 THARGEY BHUTIA 3501.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

36 TENZING ZANDAN 36 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

37 MINGMA TOPGAY 37 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

38 BIR BDR. MOKTAN 38 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

39 PEMA CHEMGEY BHUTIA 39 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

40 TSHERING DOMA BHUTIA 40 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

41 NORDEN DOPTHAPA 41 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

42 RINZING GYATSO 42 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

43 TENZING GYALPO 43 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

44 DAWA SHERPA 44 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

45 KARMA NAMGYAL 45 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

46 SONAM TOPGAY 46 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

47 SANGMO DOPTHAPA 47 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

48 KARMA SHERPA 48 01.08.2013-31.07.2018 1500

49 ONGLAY SHERPA 49 20.09.2012-31.08.2017 1500

6. Adventure Cell

Adventure Tourism in Sikkim has had a major boost over the years with the consistent efforts of thegovernment and the private sector to promote Adventure relateld activities within the State. TheDepartment has won several prestigious Adventure Tourism Awards through the concerted effortsof the entire tourism industry working cohesively with the government.

The government has maintained cordial relationship with the private sector players to promotePublic Private Partnership. The Adventure Cell of the Department has been organizing and exploringother viable adventure tourism activities in various parts of the State.

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To highlight some of the major initiatives of the department in adventure sector, the following stepshave been taken:

1. Organized Youth Adventure Festival in Yangang in South Sikkim2. Promotion of Paragliding & Mountain Biking3. Notification issued on Basic Minimum Standard (BMS) on Adventure sports Guidelines4. Prepared draft on Guidelines for Airborne Adventure Sports5. Organized International Paragliding Festival6. Streamlined Yak Joy ride at Tsomgo lake area7. Introduction & Promotion of Rock Climbing and Traversing at Bakthang Falls8. Feasibility study of adventure sports in some of the Village Tourism projects.9. Organized Rafting, Paragliding, Rock climbing, Mountain Biking and Butter Sculpture

during Sikkim Winter Carnival 2013.10. Proposed to Organise Awareness & Sensitization programme for stake holders of Border

Areas through BADP.

The promotion of adventure sports is crucial in order to take forward the programme of theGovernment to popularize adventure tourism scope in Sikkim. However, the necessary fundingto undertake a number of activities is not available and unless a substantial budgetary provisionis made it would be difficult to make any remarkable headway in this sector.

7. STATISTICAL CELL

The overall scenario of the tourism sector has changed in the last decade as the records suggest.There has been steady growth in the tourist arrival trend and this can be seen as a strong indicatorthat tourism industry in Sikkim has flourished over the years. The reason for its success can beattributed to the ceaseless efforts of the government to promote tourism industry in right earnestthrough numerous mega development projects all over the State. In order to compliment the effortsof the government the private sector has also made equal progress in the infrastructure sector inhotels, tour, trek and travel operators, transport and other tourism related trade. The governmenthas set up skill development schools to hone up appropriate skills for those in the tourism sector.

The tourist arrival trend over the last five year may be seen in chart below:

YEAR DOMESTIC FOREIGN TOTAL2009 615628 17730 6333582010 700011 20757 7207682011 552453 23945 5763982012 558538 26489 5850272013 576749 31698 608447

In view of the consistent efforts of the government and the private sector, tourism is bound toflourish in the years ahead. Some of the mega projects such as Tathagata Tsal (Lord Buddha Park),Bhaleydunga Sky Walk, Siddhesvara Dham etc. the tourists have good value for their money andtime in Sikkim.

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8. INFORMATION & PUBLICITY

Information & Publicity section deals with all matters pertaining to :-

printing of posters, brochures, banners etc

release of advertisement (print as well as electronic)

all matters pertaining to organizing events

participating in tourism marts

As part of marketing/ publicity activities following fairs and festivals were organised and attended

during the year 2012-13 :

I FAIRS & FESTIVALS WITHIN THE STATE

Date Festival Activities11-15 May 20 12 Sikkim Spring Carnival Military Tattoo at Paljor Stadium, Cultural Parade

at M.G. Marg followed by culture programmeevery evening, Ethnic Food stalls at Ridge Park,Display of Buddhist butter sculpture at WhiteHall, Handlooms & handicrafts at DHH complex,adventure events like Mountain biking,paragliding, rock climbing, angling in differentdistricts .Bhajan Sandhya by Ravindra Jain inNamchi and musical evening in Gangtok, culturalevening with local artistes, felicitation anddistribution of awards/ certificates for best foodstalls .

17.06.2012 Sikkim Tourism Stakeholders meet at NamchiGymnasium

Interaction with the tourism stakeholderspresided over by the Hon’ble Chief Minister.

31.10-3.11.2012 Sikkim InternationalParagliding Festival

Inauguration at Bulbuley,Free flying event and spot landing contest, aerodemo, Seminar and film shows regardingparagliding for students at Manan Bhawan, PhotoExhibition by TAAS at Reshithang Sports Complex,Cultural programme at M.G. Marg in theevening.Closing ceremony at Denzong Regency whichincluded prize distribution and culturalprogramme.

16-17 Dec 2012 Winter Festival atTathangchen Ground

Ethnic cuisine, culture programme, Adventuresports

23-27 Feb 2013 2nd International FlowerShow at Saramsa

Participated for tourism promotion of the State.

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II TRAVEL MARTS ATTENDED OUTSIDE THE STATE

Date Festival Activities4 – 7 Oct, 2012 Maharastra & North East

Tourism Bazaar, Mumbai(organised by (Ministry ofTourism, Government ofIndia)

Promotional activities of tourism, interactionwith tour operators & hoteliers of Maharastra.

7– 9 Nov, 2012 World Tourism Mart,London(stall sponsored by MoT,GoI)

Attended by tour operators of Sikkim

16–18 Jan,2013 South Asian Travel TradeExposition, New Delhi(stall sponsored by MoT,GoI)

Attended along with tour operators forpromotion of tourism and interaction withtourism stakeholders from other countries

18–20 Jan, 2013 International TourismMart, Guwahati(organised by MoT, GoI)

Sikkim delegation comprising of Tourism Officers,tour operators, hoteliers and cultural troupe wasled by Shri Bhim Dhungel, Hon’ble Minister ofTourism. Power Point presentation byDepartment and B2B sessions attended by touroperators.Fam tour for 8 foreign delegates to Sikkim from22 – 26 January, 2013

1 – 15 Feb, 2013 Surajkund Craft Mela,New Delhi

Attended by Gari Budang Cooperative Society forexhibition and sale of handicrafts

7 – 9 Mar, 2013 Sikkim Festival, NewDelhi, organised byTourism & Civil AviationDepartment, Governmentof Sikkim

Organised in Dilli Haat to promote tourism of theState by showcasing horticulture, floriculture,handlooms and handicrafts products and cuisine.Tourism Stakeholders Meet at The Ashok, NewDelhi

III PUBLICITY MATERIALS PRODUCED

1. Compact Discs on Sikkim Tourism produced for distribution during International TourismMart, Tawang

2. Brochures on Siddhesvara Dham printed for distribution during the visit of President of India

3. Brochures printed for distribution during International Flower Festival.

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9. SIKKIM HOUSE, NEW DELHI

1. Participation in fares and Exhibition:

(a) International Tourist Mart, Guwahati, 18th to 28th Jan,2013

(b) Sikkim festival Dilli Hart, 7th to 9th March,2013

(c) SATTE 16th to 18 Jan,2013

(d) PATA

(e) ITB- Berlin, 6th to 11th March,2012

2. Inner Line Permit issued to 323 foreign nationals. Trekking permit issued to 63 foreign

nationals. Breakup, Country wise is enclosed.

3. Information provided to 6500 Indian Nationals who have visited this office. This office also

provides information as well as brochures via post to people form other states viz. Orissa,

Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Nagpur, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Punjab, J&K, Bangalore,

Chennai, Chandigarh, Rajasthan etc.

4. In the financial year projects worth Rs.1,10,19.17 crores were sanctioned under the SS

Project. This office played an active role in the sanction of these projects. This office also

takes up and follows the official matters to the various ministries viz. Ministry of Home

Affairs, External Affairs, Department of Economic Affairs, DONER Ministry, Ministry of

Environment & Forest etc.

10.HOSPITALITY SECTION

Hospitality section is assigned with the responsibility of registration & renewal of Hotels, Travel

agent , Restaurant , Outdoor photographer /Tourist Guide & Homestay under the Sikkim

Registration of Tourist Trade Act followed by Rule 2008. The process of registration & renewal are

carried out after the premises are verified by concerned District officers. However In the East

District, the area being vast & number of establishments many, the officials of Hospitality section are

also involved in conducting verification of premises for registration & renewal . Besides registration

& renewal the section also deals with issuance of No Objection Certificates in cases of registration by

Law Department in respect of Companies, Tourism Committees & Societies related with tourism

objectives.

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Registration in F/Y 2012-2013

Sl. No East West North South Total

1 Hotel 25 6 Nil 7 38

2 Travel Agent 80 9 1 4 94

3 Restaurant Nil Nil Nil 5 05

4 Tourist Guide/ Outdoorphotographer

5 19 Nil 4 28

5 Homestay(Provisional) 2 2

6 Project level(Hotel) 11

7 NOC issued to LawDepartment

4 Nil Nil 2 06

Registration in F/Y 2013 till 23rd Jan 2014

Sl. No East West North South Total

1 Hotel 4 3 1 Nil 8

2 Travel Agent 51 8 Nil 3 62

3 Restaurant Nil Nil Nil Nil 0

4 Tourist Guide/ OutdoorPhotographer

2 Nil Nil 1 03

5 Homestay(Provisional) 25 Nil Nil Nil 25

6 Project Level (Hotel) 10 nil Nil Nil 10

7 NOC issued to LawDepartment

1 1 Nil 1 03

The total revenue generated in F/Y 2012-2013

Grand Total Rs. 9,47,750

The total revenue generated in F/Y 2013 till 23rd Jan 2014

Grand Total Rs 3,68,550/-

The total revenue earned through registration & renewal are as follow:

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REVENUE- 2012- 2013

MONTH AMOUNT

APRIL 50000

MAY 38000

JUNE 41000

JULY 38500

AUGUST 60100

SEPTEMBER 15900

OCTOBER 32600

NOVEMBER 32500

DECEMBER 37000

JANUARY 23500

FEBRUARY 31000

MARCH 547600

GRAND TOTAL 947750

HOME STAY

1. Home stay - 450 sanctioned

2. Capacity Building Training - 250 Home stay beneficiaries completed

Capacity Building Training on food Production at IHM,

Sajong, Rumtek.

11.INDIAN HIMALAYAN CENTRE FOR ADVENTURE & ECO-TOURISM,CHEMCHEY

Indian Himalayan Centre for Adventure & Ecotourism Chemchey, South Sikkim. Successfullyconducted 4 various adventure related courses in 2012-2013

i) Adventure Courses - 02 batches (16th & 17th batch)

ii) Mountaineering Expedition - 01iii) Advance Mountaineering Course - 01 batch

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Visiting Instructors

1. Miss Manita Pradhan BMC /AMC Himalayan Mountaineering Institute2. Miss Santi Rai BMC –Manali AMC – HMI Darjeeling3. Mr Anand Gurung BMC –Manali AMC – HMI Darjeeling4. Mr. Suren Rai BMC- IHCAE Chemchey5. Mr. Mohan Biswakarma BMC /AMC Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

i. Skiing –Manali WHMI6. Mr. Ongdi Lama BMC –Manali AMC – HMI Darjeeling7. Mr Passang Sherpa BMC/AMC HMI Darjeling8. Mr. Anus Gurung BMC/ Intermediate Skiing Manali9. Mr. Tashi Shrepa BMC/AMC HMI Darjeling

1. IHCAE –Adventure Activities

i) i) Trekking a) Low Altitude b) High Altitudeii) Rock Climbingiii) Obstacle Courseiv) Adventure Course for School childrenv) Survival/ disaster preparedness Coursevi) Basic Mountaineering Coursevii) Skiing courseviii) Advance Mountaineering Courseix) Mountaineering Expedition

3. The following practical and theory training syllabus was imparted during Adventure Course.

Training Syllabus:-

Practical Training

i. Introduction of rock craft/mountaineering equipment.ii. Principal of rock climbingiii. Rock holds-hand and foot holdsiv. Rope knotsv. Climbing on Slab, glacis and wall after proper demonstration given by rope instructor.vi. Obstacle trainingvii. River traversingviii. Belay techniqueix. Rappellingx. Zumeringxi. Tent pitchingxii. Load carrying/Marching technique

Theory Class

i. Sikkim historyii. Sikkim flora & Faunaiii. Sikkim Trekking routeiv. Climbing historyv. High Altitude Sicknessvi. Dos & Don’ts -while in the Himalaya

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State participants in various courses in 2010-2013

. State Male Female Total

1. Assam 29 19 48

2. Andhra Pradesh 10 10 20

3. Arunchal Pradesh 04 08 12

4. Bihar 12 10 22

5 Chhattisgarh 11 07 18

6. Goa 14 08 22

7. Jharkhand 12 12 24

8. Madhya Pradesh 23 21 44

9. Meghalaya 13 - 13

10. Manipur 30 14 44

11. Maharastra 11 11 22

12. Mizoram 03 01 04

13. Nagaland 09 05 14

14. Orissa 11 10 21

15. Rajasthan 14 08 22

16. Sikkim 149 54 203

17. Tripura 30 02 32

18. Utter Pradesh 11 11 22

19. West Bengal 13 04 17

Total 409 215 624

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Course conducted by IHCAE 2012 -2013

i) Adventure Courses - 02 batches (16th & 17th batch)

ii) Mountaineering Expedition - 01

iii) Advance Mountaineering Course - 01 batch

1 – 16th Adventure Course

41 NSS volunteers students of University level from 4 (four) North-East States i)Mizoram ii) Manipur iii) Tripura & iv) Nagaland attended the 10 days special summer adventurecourse from 4th June to 13th June ,2012. The training programme is sponsored by Ministry of Sports& Youth Affairs, New Delhi under Rajiv Gandhi Adventure scheme 2012. The trainees fromNagaland States showed remarkable sportsmanship in every adventure & sport events. They setnos. of record in Obstacle crossing timing. The entire 14 stages obstacle was completed byNagaland trainees completed in 8.5 seconds, new IHCAE 14 stages obstacle crossing record.

II – 17th Adventure Course

The 17th adventure Course was specially designed for Jr. level school children duringwinter vacation holidays. The School adventure course emphasized on the following subject.-

i) To develop leadership qualityii) To build teamwork qualitiesiii) To build self confidenceiv) To keep away children from bad habitsv) To build physical standardvi) To take up adventure as hobby in Eco friendly mannervii) To prepare school in event of Natural Disasterviii) 2 days Trekking to Tendong Hills (8,600 fts)

In the aforesaid course 21 School children from Mt Zion Zee School, Tadong attended specialadventure course from 3rd December to 9th December, 2012 at IHCAE and successfully completedthe course.

III – 1st Advance Mountaineering Course / Pre Everest Expedition

1st IHCAE Advance Mountaineering Course cum selection trial for 1st Sikkim Sates MtEverest Expedition 2013 commenced from 13th Feb. to 6th March, 2013. Theory and natural rockclimbing Training was imparted at IHCAE Institute. On 23rd AMC team proceeded to West SikkimYuksum- Bakhim -Dzongri for field training cum Ice craft.

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IV- Final Pre –Everest North-East Mt Everest Expedition (Sept.-Oct 2012)

For the 1st North-East States Mt Everest Expedition two member from IHCAE Sikkim wereinvited to participate in Final Pre –Everest North-East Mt Everest Expedition (Sept.-Oct 2012) toMt Papsura in Uttera Khand. Both the Sikkim members:-

i) Mr. Kazi Sherpaii) Mr. Anand Gurung

selected from IHCAE Institute to represent Sikkim Mr. Kazi Sherpa has climbed Mt Everestin MAY,2012 as Dy. Leader cum Technical In charge(climbing) & Mr. Anand Gurung asclimbing member.

v. Search & Rescue

IHCAE instructors team rescue and recovered the dead body of a local villager at Khola Ghari inJune ,2012 .The dead body was trapped at rock cliff above 300 fts in vertical wall . The body hangingthere for last three days and every method opted to recover a body failed. Finally IHCAE team underMr. Kazi Sherpa OSD IHCAE evacuated the body and handover to family of the deceased.

Resume team

1. Mr. Kazi Sherpa- OSD IHCAE2. Mr. Anand Gurung Instructor IHCAE3. Mr. Mohan Biswakarma’ Instructor IHCAE4. Mr. Wangdi Lama Instructor IHCAE

IHCAE Achievement 2012-2013

1. i) Mr. Kazi Sherpa- OSD Adventure(as Expedition Deputy Leader) for EverestExpedition

ii) Mr. Anand Gurung - (Visiting) Instructor IHCAE

a) Mr. Kazi Sherpa became the 1st Double Mt. Everester from Sikkim State on 18th May,2013b) Mr. Anand Gurung became the Sikkim Youngest Mt. Everester on 17th May,2013

3 a) Miss Santi Rai , Instructor IHCAE

b) Miss Manita Pradhan, Instructor IHCAE

Both participated in All India Women Expedition under Indian Mountaineering foundation,New Delhi

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12.INSTITUTE OF HOTEL MANAGEMENT, SAJONG, RUMTEK

INTRODUCTION

Institute of Hotel Management – Gangtok was set up in the year 1990 by the Ministry of Tourism,Government of India and Government of Sikkim with the aim for expansion and promotion of Hoteland Hospitality education in the State of Sikkim.

The Institute of Hotel management was set up with the aim ti expand and promote hospitalityeducation and also to fulfill the requirement of manpower in the Hospitality Industry. This Instituteprovides job oriented and professional higher education to all the students and promotes andregularizes hospitality education to the demand of the Industry.

ACHIEVEMENTS IN 2012-13

IHM achieved reported performance of 100% Job Placement record for the final year students of 3year B.Sc. degree in Hotel and Hospitality Administration and Diploma in food Production and Food& Beverage Service department in various reputed 5 star hotels like Oberoi Group of Hotels, TajGroup of Hotels, Hotel Lemon Tree, Hotel Four Seasons.

The overall Academic performance of the final year students of 3 years B.Sc. degree in Hotel &Hospitality Administration and Diploma were recorded with 95% pass percentage result for theacademic year 2012-13.

To support the plan initiated by the State Government and Ministry of Tourism, Government of Indiawith an aim to upgrade the skill on Hospitality service, IHM, Gangtok has provided Capacity BuildingTraining Programme under Hunar-Se-Rozgar Tak for 140 candidates from all four district of Sikkimwithin the financial year 2012-13. IHM has also trained 365 Home Stay beneficiaries under CapacityBuilding for Service Provider Scheme sponsored by department of Tourism and Civil Aviation, Govt.of Sikkim during the financial year 2012-13.

IHM is not onlytraining in hospitialty management but is also providing local employment to the postof Lecturers, asstt. Lecturars, Lab Assistants, Office staff etc. for a total No. of 62 staff.

IHM was supported by the State Government through Human Resource development Departmentand Directorate of Capacity Building by sponsoring candidate for regular courses every year.

During the year 2012-13:

1. 20 Nos. of Candidate for degree Course through HRDD Department,2. 10 Nos. of Candidate for Diploma Course through Directorate of Capacity Building, Deorali.

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COURSE OFFERED

At present the Institute is offering following courses:-

a). 3 years B.Sc. in Hotel and Hospitality Administration.

b). 1 ½ year Trade Diploma Course in Food Production, Food & Beverage service, front Officeand Housekeeping.

c). 1 ½ years craftsmanship Course in Food Production.

d). In Service Course.

e). Hunar-Se-Rozgar Tak Programme under capacity Building Programme sponsored by Ministryof Tourism, Government of Indian.

f). Home stay Operator Training Programme under CBSP Scheme sponsored by Department ofTourism, Government of Sikkim.

ENROLLMENT OF STUDENT IN 2012-2013

I.Degree in Hotel and Hospitality Administration.

1st year - 106 nos.

2nd year - 48 nos.

3rd Year - 29 nos.

- 118 nos.

Diploma in Food Production - 20 nos.

II. Hunar Se Rozgar Tak Programme

Food Production - 80 nos.

Food & Beverage Service - 60 nos.

140 nos.

iii. Home Stay Operator Programme – 360 nos.

iv. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

During 2012-13, Institute had received financial assistance of Rs.50.00 lakhs fromGovernment of Sikkim as the Grant-in-aid and Rs.14.80 lakhs from Government of Indian forconduct of Hunar Se Rozgar Programme. Balance amount has been generated through thecourse fees from the students and short course offered by the Institute to meet all theexpenditure during the year 2012-13.

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13.ENGINEERING CELL

The placement of proper infrastructure is the backbone of development of any economy andtourism is no exception. With the steady growth of tourist arrivals in Sikkim, there is growingpressure for provisions of more tourism infrastructure. One of the significant steps taken by theGovernment in its mission to fill up the tourism infrastructure gap was to create Engineering Cell inthe Tourism & Civil Aviation Department in 2001-02. The responsibility of this technical Cell is toeffectively plan, conceptualize, implement and commission the tourism related infrastructure inorder to fill the gap between the demand and supply of tourism facilities. Now the department hasfull-fledged Engineering Cell with two Circle Office and six Divisions headed by the Chief Engineer.

There are two major objectives in creating tourism infrastructure for the State in long-term planningprocess:

i) provide adequate, convenient, fast and safe facilities and competitively priced servicesto meet the primary needs of the tourist visiting the State and ;

ii) ii) to provide support facilities for the private sectors and act as catalyst in overalldevelopment of the State. There is persistent effort to meet these objectives throughinputs of better resources and policy documentations. The politically stable governmentand investor friendly policy of the State have made it very congenial for the investorsand corporate sectors to invest on tourism business in Sikkim.

There is constant need for additional new tourism infrastructure and improvement of existingfacilities at the various tourist destination and circuits. With the growth of global economy, thetourist’s demands and options for qualitative tourism products has also enhanced. Therefore, it hasalso become very pertinent to bring about more innovative tourism products to ensure highermarketing prospects in the national and international platform. At the same time there has beenconstant challenge to propel Sikkim ahead of other major competing, destinations including Nepaland Bhutan. Although, priorities are focused more on “ nature based tourism” to showcase theState’s unblemished natural resources, but at the same time it is also essential to put in place somelandmark tourism products that would be a unique brand of Sikkim of world –class status. Hence,the strategy of tourism infrastructure planning is also to render multiple options for the touristunder different categories viz. nature tourism, trekking tourism, adventure tourism, eco-tourism,pilgrimage tourism, snow tourism, rural tourism, wellness tourism, MICE tourism, flori-tourism, heli-tourism, border trade & tourism, fair & festival tourism, culture tourism, indigenous tourism, travelexpedition etc. realizing the multiplier effects of tourism economic development and povertyalleviation, the State government has acknowledged tourism as the thrust sector. Higher impetus onthis sector is being given to ensure larger social objectives and being about all round developmentthrough people’s participation with government acting as a proactive facilitator. The objective ofmaking Sikkim ‘an ultimate eco-tourism destination’ is also being sensitively propagated under thebrand of responsible travel with balanced development process keeping in view the vision of futureSikkim. While panning of tourism infrastructure, due care is taken to ensure that the tourismproducts are self-sustained and in harmony with the nature, culture and heritage of Sikkim. thetourist circuits and destinations are being strengthened with optimum environmental care based onthe principles of conservation and sustainability.

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A wide spectrum of tourism infrastructure sanctioned during the 10th Plan has been completed andmost of the project sanctioned during 10th Plan period is nearing completion. With the addition oftourist infrastructures and facilities, the State has witnessed record increase in tourist arrivals overpast few years. Most of tourism infrastructure developments are financially supported by theMinistry of Tourism and few projects are also being assisted under BADP, NLCPR, TFC and ADB (under SASEC). Since tourism is associated with almost all the sectors, a large numbers of tourismrelated schemes are also implemented by other Departments like RMDD,UD & HD, SPWD, Forestetc. which is in line with the convergence programme being strongly advocated by the Ministry ofTourism, the tourism planning process is being guided in synergy with best practices to brings adistinct visibility of the State in the national and international Tourism Map. Above all, thedepartment is sensitively propagating morally responsible tourism’ as the ethical code of tourismprospects for Sikkim in order to prohibit entry of the immoral elements that are detrimental to thesociety. “Do’s and Don’ts” are adequately exhibited and being regulated from time to time.

With the increase of tourism activities, the technical activities of the Department have also increasedmanifolds. More tourism infrastructure have been planned to enhance our holding capacity. Theforthcoming proposals would be technically more innovative, eco-friendly, climate responsive andfuturistic to fetch the high- end domestic tourists and international visitors. The main tourisminfrastructure presently being implemented by the department includes:-

Tourist Circuits Development programme, Tourist Destination Development Programme, Development of Pilgrimage sites, Development of Heliports, Tourist lodges and Yatri Niwas, Development of facilities at the places of tourist interests, Wayside amenities, Tourist facilitation and reception centre, Rural tourism programme, Adventure tourism related infrastructure, Development and improvement of trekking routes, Development of recreation centres, Infrastructure relating to human resource development on tourism, hotel and hospitality

services , etc.

The infrastructures are also being promoted on the concept of Green tourism, Wellness tourism,Spa tourism, Tea tourism and specific interest tourism under CFA of different sponsoringMinistries. The achievements on infrastructure development sector for the year under reportare numerous, the report on few project to completed or at the verge of completion in 2012-13are as follows:

(1) PILGRIMAGE & CULTURAL CENTRE AT RABONG (TATHAGATA PRESERVE) AT RABONG.

Sikkim receives substantial number of visitors from many of the Buddhist countries around the

world although not in the desirable number. It is quite certain that in the years to come the

scenario will change as Sikkim will gradually grow in popularity and stature with the

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establishment of some of the mega projects that are directly connected to Buddhism. The state

government has already established some rare Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Sikkim which are not

yet available in other places. The statue of Guru Padmasambhava in Samdruptse, Namchi, South

District is considered as the tallest statue anywhere. The entire area is being beautified with

added facilities for meditation, leisure, study and such other exclusive interests. Large number of

devotees visits the place to pay respect and receive blessings.

The other mega project on Buddhism is directly connected to the founder of Buddhism, Lord

Buddha. An exquisite park is being developed as “Tathagata Preserve” at Rabong, South Sikkim,

which was graced by a giant statue of Lord Buddha was completed and inaguartted in 24th March

2013 by His Holiness Dalai Lama. The entire park is being developed on one of the most beautiful

spot in Rabong, the park has all the facilities from souvenir shops & café to accommodation,

convocation/meditation hall, and a Buddhist Learning Centre which will house an exclusive

library for the visitors and those pursuing intensive studies in Buddhism. The management of the

park shall be similar to the one for Siddheshvara Dham, at Solophuk, Namchi, South Sikkim.

2.NAMCHI-SAMDRUPTSE ROPEWAY:

This is one of the continuity projects of the 11th Plan with latest physical progress of about 80%.

The initial project cost was 27.42 crore, out of which sanction of the Mo/DONER under NLCPR is

to the extent of Rs. 16.04 crore only with funding ratio of 90:10 between the Central and the

State (Central: Rs 14.44 Cr. & State: Rs. 1.60). Now, the total project cost has been enhanced to

Rs. 44.00 crore due to reasons including foreign exchange rate variation on import items, cost

escalation, electrical cost, shifting 66 kv transmission line and revision in the work scope etc. The

Project is expected to be completed by end of 2014.

DETAILS OF SCHEMES COMPLETED DURING THE FINANCIAL YEAR 2012-13

Sl.No Name of Schemes Location

Financial Outlay

Total Sanction

1 Beautification & other infrastructure at Tsomgo underDestination Development (sanction received in march2007)

Tsomgo 384.64

2 Dev. of Nathula-Memencho-Kupup-Ganthang touristcircuit in East Sikkim

Nathula,Gnathang 495.70

3 Construction of View Tower at balwakhani & Foot trail inEast Sikkim

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i Construction of foottrail from Gairi Gaon Tadong toJordhara Lower Tadong in East Sikkim. Tadong 35.53

ii Tourist Reception Centre at Rangpo in East Sikkim Rangpo 506.18

4 Construction of Heritage Centre at Marchak & Beyong inEast Sikkim

i Beaurification, traditional painting, water supply, headload & electrical works for Heritage Centre at Marchak Marchak 59.49

5 Development of Gangtok as Major Tourist Destiantion

i Beautification of Ridge Road near Chogyal Thutup NamgyalMemorial Park at Gangtok Chandmari 110.68

ii Architectural Lighting of Building at Gangtok Chandmari 14.37

iii Development of Saramsa Garden i/c Bridge at Gangtok Ranipool 313.97

iv Development of Water Garden at Lower Martam LowerMartam 104.40

v Tourist information counter at Bagdogra Airport WB Bagdogra 5.00

6 Tourist Circuit Development Enroute Rumtek in EastSikkim

i Trekking trail from Greendale School to 5th. Mile, Tadong. Tadong 17.14

ii Parking & beautification of Tourist Aminity at Rawtey RawteyRumtek 16.98

iii Const. of Entrance Gate, resting shed & sinage at Lingdum Lingdum 17.47

7 Tourist Spot Development of Kumrek i/c Trek route Dev.from Gadi to Jhandidara via Dikling.

i Tourist Spot Development at Kumrek in East Sikkim Kumrek 292.60

8 Destination Devlopment of Mangan Tourist Axis i/cHeliport in North Sikkim

Mangan42.75

9 Development of Tourist Infrastructure at Jorethang inSouth Sikkim Majhitar 327.95

10 Village tourism at Rong, South Sikkim Rong 58.24

11 Construction of meeting hall cum Car Park at Samduptsein south sikkim Namchi 456.86

Development of Pilgrimage Circuit at Rorathang, Reshi &Rhenock in East Sikkim

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i Development of Tourist Infrastructure at Aritar in EastSikkim.

Aritar 78.29

14. SOUTH ASIA TOURISM INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENTPROJECT (IND), LOAN NO. – 2578, ASIAN DEVELOPMENTBANK.

SASEC TOURISM DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE – AN OVERVIEW

1. The South Asia Subregional Economic Cooperation (SASEC) Program of the ADB has been designed tohelp the five participating countries (Nepal, India, Bangladesh, Bhutan and Sri Lanka) to transformchallenges into opportunities in South Asia sub region - one of the world's poorest, most denselypopulated areas. The SASEC program covers the following key sectors: (i) Transportation andCommunication, (ii) Energy and Power, (iii) Tourism (iv) Environment and (v) Trade, Investment andPrivate Sector Cooperation.

2. The project for Improving Connectivity and Destination Infrastructure for Subregional TourismDevelopment forms part of the SASEC Tourism Infrastructure Roadmap1. The Roadmap, prepared inclose consultation with country stakeholders under an ADB funded TA, reflects the commitment tojoint development of tourism infrastructure along selected multi-country tourism circuits thatcombine complementary country assets into marketable sub-regional tourism products.3. The broader themes & sub-themes comprehensively designed for SASEC tourism initiative are:promoting regional economic growth by widening access to markets and economic opportunities;enhancing regional cooperation and integration of public goods; promoting cultural exchanges aswell as establishing a regional cultural identity; preparing roadmaps for regional environmentalsustainability; and enhance institutional capacity and development envisioned to cater the sub-region. The specific themes centric to the sub-regional significance are ‘Integrated CulturalExperience- Buddhism’ and ‘Integrated Sustainable and Responsible Ecotourism’.

SASEC Sub-Circuits1. The Footsteps of Lord BuddhaSub-circuit2. Nepal Ecotourism Road Sub-circuit1 A multi-country circuit is defined as a route on which there are more than one or two major destinations located in more than onecountry. In this way, it is envisaged that a tourist who enters to a destination in one country is motivated to visit other destinationsin the same route in another country hence resulting in increased arrivals to all destinations in more than one country, i.e., in thesubregion. The Roadmap ranks the multi-country circuits and their infrastructure requirements based on criteria including marketdemand, the level of contribution of the circuit to not only national but also sub-regional tourism, and the capacity of the circuit tobenefit the poorer areas of region and to expand the current tourism flows for inclusive tourism development. The Roadmap, thus,provides a long-term framework for phased development of multi-country circuits in accordance with priorities and available funds

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3. North East Himalaya Sub-circuit4. Bangladesh India HeritageHighway Sub-circuit5. Bhutan / India Sub-circuit6. Brahmaputra River CruiseSub-circuit7. Great Himalaya Trail Sub-circuit8. Sri Lanka’s Cultural TriangleSub-circuit9. Sri Lanka’s SouthernEcotourism Triangle Sub-circuitFigure Error! No text of specified style in document.-1: Identified Tourism circuits in SASEC Sub-region4. The expected outcomes are several sub-regional circuits of nature and culture-based tourismdestinations with (i) improved connectivity, (ii) better quality environment and visitor services; (iii)enhanced natural and cultural heritage, and capacity for sustainable heritage management; and (iv)greater engagement of communities in heritage management and tourism benefits. These outcomeswill be achieved by (i) improving access and destination infrastructure and services in key nature andculture-based tourism sites located along selected multi country tourist circuits; (ii) building thecapacities of sector agencies for sustainable protection and management of natural and culturalheritage sites as well as tourism-related infrastructure and assets e.g., airport; and (iii) strengtheninglinkages between tourism and local population and building the capacity of communities to enablethem to obtain greater benefits from tourism. The approved project includes project interventions inthree countries: Nepal, India, and Bangladesh.5. The Project includes the integrated development of high priority tourism infrastructure and servicesin high-potential multi-country circuits in the three countries. The Project will leverage thesubregion’s inherent comparative advantages in nature and culture-based tourism resulting inincreased arrivals and length of stay of tourists and greater incomes from tourism. It will diversifyand extend the geographic and seasonal patterns of tourism thus spread the tourism benefits to newcommunities which are currently bypassed by the current tourism markets. Combined with measuresfor awareness raising and capacity building of stakeholders, the Project will enhance theconservation and management of the subregion’s unique natural and cultural heritage, and lead togreater community support and engagement in nature and culture-based tourism activities.Improved infrastructure and services in many tourism destinations will improve not only overallexperience of tourists but also quality of life of communities living in and around these destinations.Enhanced air and road connectivity to the new areas of tourism importance in Bhutan and Nepal willbenefit the tourists as much as local population who will enjoy more mobility and less timeconsuming travel while overall development will accelerate remarkably in these currently remoteand isolated locations.

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INDIA COMPONENT OF SASEC TOURISM PROJECT – OVERVIEW6. The India portion of the project focuses on Sikkim State, and is part of the Great Himalayan Trail sub-circuit. Sikkim is located at the geographic centre of the sub-region and has a good road connection toBagdogra airport, the sub-regional hub with potential links to the Bangladesh Cultural HeritageHighway circuit, east Nepal, Bhutan, and other north-eastern states. The connectivity and destinationimprovements in Sikkim focus on (i) a world-renowned Buddhist site, the Rumtek monastery,situated within 24 kilometres (km) away from Gangtok, the capital city of the State; (ii) the nature-based sites in west Sikkim which form a part of the greater Himalayan trail (footnote 1); (iii) villagetourism development; and (iv) transformation of Sikkim into a center of sub-regional learning innature and culture-based tourism by supporting the development of a training institute (HimalayanTraining Institute) already initiated by the Government of India. The entire subprojectimplementation is determined to be completed by year 2014.LOAN/GRANT DETAILS7. Project Investment Plan: The total sub-regional investment cost of the Project is estimated at $89.5million, including taxes and duties of $7.35 million, of which the India component (to be implementedin Sikkim) will be $28.0 million.8. Financing Plan: A loan of $20.0 million equivalent from ADB's ordinary capital resources will beprovided to India under ADB’s London interbank offered rate (LIBOR)-based lending facility. The loanwill have a 25 year term including a grace period of 5 years, an interest rate determined inaccordance with ADB's London interbank offered rate (LIBOR)-based lending facility, a commitmentcharge of 0.15% per annum, and such other terms and conditions as set forth in the draft loanagreement. The Government of India will provide $8.0 million as counterpart funds.9. Period of Utilization and Estimated Project Completion Date: December 2009 to April 201510. Executing Agencies: Department of Tourism, Government of Sikkim, India11. Implementation Arrangements: A sub-regional task force with representatives of the ministries oftourism and finance and the executing and implementing agencies of each participating country willbe established to meet annually and coordinate the progress of national projects. A national projectsteering committee will be established in each country to provide policy guidance and overseeproject implementation.12. In India, a Project Management and Implementation Unit (PMIU) based at Gangtok and ProjectImplementation Units (PIUs) at Yuksom and Namchi will be set up in the Sikkim’s Department ofTourism that is designated as both project executing and implementing agency.13. Procurement: Goods and services financed by ADB and the OPEC Fund for InternationalDevelopment will be procured in accordance with ADB’s Procurement Guidelines (2007, as amendedfrom time to time). International competitive bidding procedures will be used for civil workscontracts estimated to cost $10.0 million or more in India; and for supply contracts valued at $1.0million or higher. The upper limit for civil works to be procured through national competitive bidding

29

procedures will be less than $10.0 million in India. Shopping will be used for contracts forprocurement of equipment and simple civil works worth $100,000 or less.14. Technical Assistance & Consulting Services: Teams of international and national consultants willbe engaged to assist in managing and implementing the Project in accordance with ADB’s Guidelineson the Use of Consultants (2007, as amended from time to time).15. Bridging TA consultant will be appointed by the ADB for the handholding assistance to Department ofTourism, Government of Sikkim for technical viability bridging for first year priority projects andsubsequent year projects. The Bridging TA will for enhanced project preparedness and managementis aimed to provide handholding (bridging TA) support for the effective and timely implementation ofthe India portion of the proposed South Asia Tourism Infrastructure Development Project (regional).The support envisaged as part of the Bridging TA to the DoT, GoS will be targeted at (i) enhancedproject management and exposure to ADB procedures in project implementation e.g., procurement,(ii) supporting the planning, investigation, surveys, and detailed design of priority packages of theIndia portion of the regional project, and (iii) initial public and community awareness raisingprograms. This TA package will be implemented over 8-12 months.16. Project Management Consultants providing services in the areas of project management, detaileddesign, supervision, community participation, environmental and social safeguards, projectperformance monitoring, heritage planning and management, ecotourism, institutional development,and financial management for the purpose of complete implementation of the envisaged project willbe employed. A total of 333 person-months (12 person-months international and 321 person-months national) will be required.17. Two different delegated TA consultants will be employed for Technical Assistance for (a) FosteringCommunity Participation and Community Capacity Building for village tourism (for 6 months); and(b) Preparing the Operationalization Plan and Curriculum Development for the Chemchey Institute(for 18 months).18. Total Cost Abstract:1 COST OF PROJECT $ 22,807,251.002 PHYSICAL CONTINGENCY 10% OF SL NO. 1 $ 2,280,725.003 PRICE CONTINGENCY 5% OF SL NO. 1 $ 1,140,363.004 INTEREST DURING IMPLEMENTATION 8% OF SL NO. 1 $ 1,824,580.005 COMMITMENT CHARGE 0% OF SL NO. 1 $ -

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15 SIKKIM TOURISM DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

Helicopter Service in Sikkim was introduced fundamentally on social and natural interestconsideration then on commercial consideration. The helicopter service in Sikkim being operated bySikkim Tourism Development Corporation, which is a package programme of Ministry of HomeAffairs, Government of India for removing physiological barriers of local people of North East as wellas travelling public so as to overcome the feeling of isolation. Whenever the remote parts of theregion ar cut off due to landslide/agitation in the neighbouring state, helicopter service is detailed toprovide life line of communication with the Ministry of Home Affairs. Government of India provide75% subsidy on the cost of operation with State Share of 25%. Helicopter service is outsourced fromM/S Pawan Hans Helicopter Limited , a Government of India undertaking.

The details of Helicopter

Make/model-Bell 407

Carrying capacity – 5 passenger + 2 pilots

Engine make- Single Engine.

Helicopter Service is conducting regular schedule flights from Gangtok – Bagdogra- Gangtok. Otherservices include Medical flight, Rescue/Emergency flight and chartered flight.

At present the Heliservice conducts following

1. Joyride 15 mins2. Mountain flights on demand3. West Sikkim country side flight on demand4. Schedule flight Gangtok-Bagdogra-Gangtok5. Medical flight on demand6. Tsomgo Arial View on demand7. Char Dham Ariel View, Namchi South Sikkim on demand

Revenue generated- 17,462,551/-Expenditure 5,761,471/-Payable to PHHL(2012-13) Rs. 51,345,052/-(MHA and State share not included)

DAK BUNGALOWS/GUEST HOUSES (ROADS & BRIDGES)

14 Guest Houses were transferred to Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation STDC in June 2010along with manpower(MR) attached with Guest House monthly salary amounting to Rs. 6,80,725/-.

Revenue Generated- Rs. 38,200/-Expenditure Rs. 32,10,506/-

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Sikkim House, Middleton Street, Kolkata

The Revenue generated from the above Sikkim House is plough back for maintenance and salary andwages of the staffs working there.

Revenue Generated- Rs. 46,55,250/-Expenditure Rs. 40,25,550/-

New Sikkim House, Salt Lake

New Sikkim House at Salt Lake is catering mainly to the referred medical cases by Government ofSikkim. Though the property required major renovation the performance of the unit for the year2012-13 is as below.


Travel Division

Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation STDC started luxury transport and LTC package andmarketing of Heli tourism, Sikkim House from Travel Division


Rangpo Tourist Lodge

Rangpo Tourist Lodge is located at Rangpo which is a gateway to Sikkim and has a strategic locationfrom Tourism point of view. The above lodge is also being utilized during VIP movement andGovernment function. The Unit is self sustainable and asset of State Government.


LIC Marketing

Revenue Generated- Rs.2,03,494/-

Other information

1. Participated in TTF in International & Domestic Trade Fair2. Total Outstanding dues receivable from Tourism & Civil Aviation Department is as under:

STCD Head Office Rs. 2,25,000/-Heliservice Rs. 2,70,000/-Travel Division Rs. 35,000/-Rangpo Tourist Lodge Rs. 3,41,439/-

Total Rs. 8,71,439/-

1. tourism – an overview - sikkim tourism€¦ · 1 1. tourism – an overview sikkim is now a...

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