Sikkim tourism gears up for growth under CM’s vision, says STDC Chairman Lukendra Rasaily

Lukendra Rasaily, Chairman of the Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation (STDC), has expressed strong commitment to strengthening tourism in the state. Speaking about recent developments and plans ahead, he said that Sikkim’s tourism sector is heading towards growth and stability under the guidance of Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang.

Rasaily mentioned that the government had initially introduced a 22-seater vehicle service to help tourists travel across the region. “But it didn’t work well,” he said. “Sometimes there were no passengers at all, and sometimes it was completely packed. The weather also created problems, so the service couldn’t run properly.”

Despite challenges, he said that the state government, especially the Chief Minister, has shown great interest in youth development and the promotion of products made by local Self-Help Groups (SHGs). “I am very thankful to our Hon’ble Chief Minister for showing genuine interest in our local entrepreneurs. He has helped them move forward,” Rasaily said.

He also stressed the importance of promoting original handicrafts made by local artisans. “The handicrafts of Sikkim should be highlighted; especially the ones made by our own people, not imported items,” he added.

According to him, the idea of the creative economy is growing fast all over the world, and Sikkim is not behind. “Many young boys and girls are now entering creative fields. They have talent, and they need support. That’s why we are focusing on this area,” Rasaily said.

The STDC, a wing of the state Tourism Department, will now act as a strong marketing and promotional body. Rasaily said he is fully dedicated to carrying forward this work in line with the CM’s vision. “Our Chief Minister is truly supporting the tourism sector. Because of his support, five tourism-background officers have risen from the East and South districts. Even our OSD has a tourism background. The CLC president of the SKM party also shares this vision,” he added.

Rasaily also said that during elections, the CM had promised to uplift SHG leaders by giving them important roles. “Now many youth entrepreneurs are getting proper training and support. This is a very good sign,” he said.

In the last six years, under the CM’s leadership, many local cafes and restaurants have come up on MG Marg in Gangtok, even though rent prices are high. “This shows that our youth are determined,” Rasaily said. “There are around 2 to 3 lakh people in Sikkim who depend directly or indirectly on tourism. They are happy with the CM’s work.”

He said that before 2019, the tourism promotion budget was almost nothing. “Earlier, the promotion budget was just Rs 1,000. During COVID-19, the CM gave Rs 75 lakh for promotion. That funding continues even today,” Rasaily noted. “Capacity building and skill development are also being given importance.”

He added that the main goal now is to empower local people involved in tourism. “We want to make the CM’s vision a reality. Even in North Sikkim, where there are issues with roads and three major bridges, work is happening with the help of our MPs, MLAs, and ministers,” he said.

Talking about helicopter services, Rasaily said earlier they had big helicopters, but those caused losses. “Now we are speaking to new companies for better services. Proposals have been sent to the government,” he said.

He also spoke about the ongoing Mansarovar Yatra through Nathula Pass. “We are planning to send 500 pilgrims through Nathula. This is a big step. We also want to allow foreign tourists to enter through Nathula. Proposals have been given, and the CM is very serious about it,” Rasaily shared.

He said that although the tourist season is still picking up, things are improving. “By September, we expect more tourists to arrive. Last year, we had around 8 lakh tourists, and the number will rise once roads are better.”

Rasaily also addressed recent rumors about the tourism industry facing a slowdown. “Some people said that tourists are not coming and that the economy is down. But the truth is different. Tourist footfall may drop for a while, but local travelers are increasing. Many are staying at homestays and local hotels,” he said.

He said that a government official is now in Kolkata along with over 100 delegates to attend a major travel fair. “This shows that our government is serious about tourism. Promotion and marketing are being done at full speed,” Rasaily said.

In conclusion, he stated that the only thing now needed urgently is better road infrastructure. “Once the roads are improved, there will be no limit for tourism in Sikkim. We have everything; natural beauty, local talent, and strong leadership. We just need to keep moving forward,” he added.