Pakyong, November 04 (IPR): The District-Level Dialogue on Sikkim Vision 2047 for Pakyong District, organised by the Planning and Development Department, Government of Sikkim, in coordination with the District Administrative Centre, Pakyong, was held at a local hotel in Pakyong today.
The dialogue brought together district officials, representatives from various sectors, civil society organisations, entrepreneurs, students and other stakeholders to share their perspectives, recommendations and developmental priorities for shaping an inclusive and sustainable vision for Sikkim by 2047.
Addressing the gathering, Zilla Adhyaksha, Ms Laden Lhamu Bhutia, shed light on the initiatives undertaken in areas such as education, empowerment of Self-Help Groups (SHGs), social awareness, infrastructure development and community welfare, emphasising holistic development at the grassroots level.
Additionally, Zilla Upadhyaksha, Ms Prabha Pradhan, stressed the importance of education, healthcare, skill development and nurturing responsible young citizens. She highlighted the role of families in shaping young minds and underscored the need for self-determination, confidence and individual responsibility.
Likewise, District Collector, Ms Pari Bishnoi, emphasised the need to develop a distinct vision rooted in Sikkim's strengths and local potential rather than replicating models from other states. She highlighted high-value tourism, agriculture, entrepreneurship, youth empowerment, mental health, resource utilisation and disaster resilience as key areas for long-term development.
ADC (Development), Mr Sangay Gyatso Bhutia, underscored the importance of environmental conservation, ecosystem protection, waste management and preservation of air, water and land resources. He also highlighted e-governance, improved transport management and strengthening agriculture, particularly large cardamom and orange cultivation.
APS to HCM, Mr Bishal Sharma, highlighted Pakyong's strategic potential arising from its connectivity through railways, airways and upcoming road infrastructure. He stressed the need to leverage these opportunities for trade, exports and sustainable economic growth, while also highlighting mental health awareness and initiatives under the Nasha Mukt Sikkim campaign.
Furthermore, Chief Medical Officer, Pakyong, Mr Madan Mani Dhakal, highlighted public health priorities, including addressing hypertension, diabetes, mental health concerns and substance abuse, while suggesting initiatives to strengthen healthcare delivery towards the 2047 vision.
Additionally, SDPO Pakyong, Mr Bikash Rai shared recommendations on strengthening policing through cybercrime awareness, capacity-building, training programmes and effective implementation of new criminal laws.
Joint CEO, EEPF cum Joint Secretary, Planning and Development Department, Mr Abhijeet R Patel briefed on the aim of the programme and highlighted that the district level consultations aim to incorporate diverse stakeholder perspectives into the formulation of Sikkim Vision 2047, aligned with the broader vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Representatives from various organisations and sectors, including Jeevan Marg Rehabilitation Centre, RISELY – The Inquisitive Mind, United Silk Trout Tourism Development, Bird Watching, Pakyong Nagar Panchayat, Phadamchen Panchayat, Kotey Bari Homestay, Education Department, Self-Help Groups, Sikkim IFFCO, Citizen Foundation, Alchemy Fitness, Duga Block, and stakeholders from trout farming, crab farming, ornamental fish farming and sports, also shared their inputs.
Students from SMIT, ITI Rangpo, Rhenock College, PM Shri Dikling Senior Secondary School, Machong Senior Secondary School and Mamring Senior Secondary School also presented their perspectives and aspirations for Sikkim's future.
The consultation forms part of the state's ongoing efforts towards participatory and people-centric development planning and the recommendations gathered will contribute to shaping an inclusive, resilient and prosperous Sikkim Vision 2047.