Gyalshing, May 12(IPR): A one-day District-Level Sensitization-Cum-Awareness Programme on Responsible and Sustainable Tourism for Chalaks was organised by SIKKIM INSPIRES IEIAP Convergence  in collaboration with District Administrative Centre,Rural Development Department and the Tourism & Civil Aviation Department at Tendrel Inn Conference Hall,today.
The programme aimed to sensitise local drivers and tourism stakeholders on responsible tourism practices, road safety, sanitation, health awareness, and visitor hospitality, thereby strengthening sustainable tourism initiatives in the district.
The event was graced by the Chairman, Rural Development Department, Mr Narayan Khatiwada as the Chief Guest, along with District Collector-cum-Chairman IEIAP, Mr Tenzing D Denzongpa. Other dignitaries present included ADC (HQ) Ms Tripti Hangma Subba;ADC (Development) Mr Surat Kumar Gurung;OSD to HCM Mr Digam Gurung;CMO Gyalshing Dr Namgay Bhutia;BDO Gyalshing Mr Garap Bhutia;BDO Chongrang Ms Geeta Kumari Gurung;Bazar Officer Mr DR Sharma; AD Tourism Mr Gyamsto T Bhutia, officers from various departments, lecturers,Principal of Girls Senior Secondary School Kyongsa, Panchayat members, and local drivers at large.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest appreciated the initiative and encouraged all stakeholders to continue promoting cleanliness, safety, discipline, and responsible tourism practices across the district. He also urged drivers to act as responsible ambassadors of society by ensuring safe and ethical driving practices, emphasising their vital role in protecting lives and maintaining smooth public transportation services.
In his keynote address, District Collector-cum-Chairman IEIAP highlighted the collective responsibility of maintaining sustainable tourism standards and stressed the crucial role played by drivers in shaping tourists’ experiences in the State.
During the technical sessions, resource persons from various departments delivered informative presentations on key aspects related to tourism and public welfare.
Chief Medical Officer ,Gyalshing Dr Namgay Bhutia spoke on basic first aid techniques, CPR procedures, and the identification of symptoms related to common sicknesses and medical emergencies. The session highlighted the importance of emergency preparedness among drivers and tourism service providers.
MVI from the Motor Vehicles Department conducted an awareness session on road safety and security protocols, stressing safe driving practices, passenger safety, and adherence to traffic regulations.
Sharing his experiences as a professional driver and travel content creator, Mr Raj Kumar Limboo encouraged participants to uphold professionalism, hospitality, and positive representation of Sikkim’s tourism sector.
A session on sanitation and waste management was conducted by Mr Tsheten Tashi Bhutia, focusing on cleanliness, proper waste disposal, and environmental responsibility in tourist destinations.
Further, Deputy Director Tourism Mr Manoj Kumar Chettri addressed the gathering on the importance of promoting responsible tourism practices among chalaks and tourism stakeholders for the sustainable growth of the tourism sector.
The programme also featured an interactive feedback session where participants shared their experiences, challenges, and best practices related to tourism services and road connectivity in the district.
Adding a lighter and motivational touch to the programme, comedian-Cum-chalak Mr Biren Pradhan delivered a short speech encouraging drivers to serve as responsible ambassadors of Sikkim tourism.
Earlier, the gathering also witnessed a skit demonstration presented by students of DIET College Gyalshing.
The programme concluded with the distribution of certificates and kits to the participants, followed by the vote of thanks proposed by BDO Gyalshing Mr. Garap Bhutia.
The programme was compered by Ms Yangchenla Bhutia (DPT)and Ms. Anjana Chettri (DPT).