First ‘Sanibara Haat’ opens at Kameray Model Village to promote local entrepreneurship

The first-ever ‘Sanibara Haat’ (Saturday Market) was inaugurated today at Kameray Model Village under Budang Kameray GPU in Pakyong District, Sikkim.

The new weekly market was formally inaugurated by Shri Tshering T. Bhutia, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism & Civil Aviation and Commerce & Industries Department, Government of Sikkim. The minister was warmly welcomed by members of the local organizing committee, Panchayat representatives, and villagers. On this auspicious occasion, he also received blessings from the respected Guruji before commencing the day’s program.

In his speech, Tshering T. Bhutia expressed deep appreciation to Hon’ble Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang for his strong and consistent support towards grassroots entrepreneurs and rural development. He highlighted the importance of creating platforms like ‘Sanibara Haat’ to encourage youth and local residents to become self-reliant through small businesses and traditional crafts. The minister also spoke about several schemes and support programs currently being run under the Tourism and Industries Departments, which aim to provide training, guidance, and financial assistance to budding entrepreneurs.

Bhutia also made a strong appeal to the people to embrace the "Vocal for Local" initiative. He said that by buying locally made goods and supporting village-level businesses, people not only help their neighbours but also strengthen the local economy in a sustainable way.

He was accompanied at the event by Shri Puran Kumar Gurung, Hon’ble Minister for Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, Veterinary Services, Fisheries & Horticulture. Also present were Hon’ble MLA-cum-Advisor Shri L.N. Nepal, the Hon’ble Zilla Upadhyaksha of Pakyong District, ADC Pakyong, Zilla Members, Panchayat leaders, government officers from various departments, NGOs, and a large number of local villagers who came to witness the event and take part in the new market’s first day.