Sikkim is developing rapidly as a tourist destination: President


Gangtok: President Mrs Pratibha Patil inaugurated Kangchendzonga Tourist Villa-cum-Socio Cultural Amusement Park at Ranka (East Sikkim) on April 15, the second day of her 3-day Sikkim visit. Governor and Chief Minister were present, among others. In her inaugural address the President said, “I am happy to inaugurate the Khangchendzonga Tourist Villa-cum-Socio-Cultural and Amusement Park, which has been created in a manner that will not only make tourists comfortable, but also give them the opportunity to acquaint themselves with the local culture and lifestyle”, President said. “I would also like to congratulate the Government of Sikkim for the vision and foresight to have conceptualized and created this world class tourism infrastructure, in a time-bound manner”, she added.
She continued: “I am happy that the State is developing rapidly as a tourist destination and, over the past few years, there has been a phenomenal increase in the inflow of both domestic and foreign tourists.
“The reasons for Sikkim being a very popular tourist destination are many. It is a land steeped in legend and tradition. It is often referred to as the land of the hidden paradise, because of its scenic mountains, valleys and forests that are blessed with rivers, lakes and waterfalls. It offers options of mountaineering, trekking and adventure sports. It has potential for village, religious and eco-tourism.
“The growth of tourism has been possible because of the peace loving people of Sikkim, and I complement them. Tourism can be a leading sector in Sikkim both in terms of generating revenue and in creating work opportunities… The youth of the State can be given proper training so that they can find employment in this sector, which in turn will benefit with better management skills.
“I am glad that as a part of the Year of Tourism 2010, the Government of Sikkim is organizing the International Rhododendron Festival with a view to create awareness that the original habitat of this flowering plant are the Himalayas.
“I am told that an ancient folk tale, often narrated here, is about ‘Kemo Reep’ a species of the Rhododendron. Such is your deep relationship with nature.
“Sikkim is a multi-ethnic society and it is admirable the way people live together in harmony. Indeed, pluralism is one of the very basic characteristics of our nation and it is our strength. It is my wish that harmony, peace, growth and prosperity reach every part of the country and every section of society. All states, all regions and all citizens are a part of the effort to build a strong and democratic country. The progress and prosperity of India will only be achieved when each and every of its states progress.
“Sikkim with its many natural resources and good social indicators is a contributor to national growth. Sikkim has also shown that while moving on the path of development, we can retain our distinctive culture and maintain ecological balance.
“I recall giving the first Nirmal Rajya Award to Sikkim in 2008, when it became the first State in the country to achieve 100 percent sanitation. I am told that the State Government is now moving towards providing housing to all by next year, and to make Sikkim a poverty free State by 2015.
These are important objectives. I congratulate and pay compliments to the Chief Minister of Sikkim for setting these goals, and am confident that with political guidance, time bound implementation and proper monitoring, these targets will be achieved.
“In our country, education has become a fundamental right for all children between the ages of 6 to 14 years. This will be important for Sikkim, a State which has 60 percent of its population below 24 years. Our endeavor is to make our youth energetic and educated. They must have the knowledge and the ability to work, earn and most importantly, contribute to the development of the nation.


source;sikkim reporter