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Sikkim to emerge India's Switzerland
by Tashi Pradhan

      Gangtok: If Sikkim's Chief Minister Pawan Chambling has his way, his state will soon be known as the Switzerland of India. After undertaking a 23-day trip to Europe, Chambling said: "We want to develop and promote our state and make it as good as Switzerland."

    According to Chambling, Sikkim has huge potential for tourism development, given its scenic natural environs, but he cautions that this is only feasible if the state's resources are tapped well. Sikkim is one of the few Indian states boasting of eco tourism, and the Central Government and other agencies are helping it to realize this potential. "With the support of the Central Government, Sikkim will be the number one destination in our country. We are trying our best to develop our state as the best tourist destination in the country," said Chambling. The state government is also seeking the help of domestic and foreign investors. "We are seeking investment from India and abroad for the tourism and hydropower sectors, besides other potential sectors. Our main advantage is natural resources and we want to exploit these resources," said Chambling. Potential also exists for developing Sikkim as the floriculture capital of the country. What is required is a judicious planning, communication and adequate Central Government support. "Our main problem is airport and railways and we are hopeful that within three years we will have our own airport," said Chambling. The state's rich cultural tradition, its dance forms and unique lifestyles are also avenues for revenue generation. Sikkim can be called as the best example of a composite culture. Here monasteries, temples and stupas reflect this quite appropriately.
-April 29, 2006

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