By: Nandu Dutraj

A month long International Rhododendron Festival closing ceremony organized at West Sikkim was inaugurated by Deputy Chairman of State Planning Commission Mr. Sanchaman Limboo on 25th March at Hilley.

Addressing the gathering Mr. Limboo said that Sikkim occupies the second position in the world and 1st position in Asian country in variety of rhododendron. Adding further Mr. Limboo asserted that “We have to respect tourist and show good behavior towards them to foster tourism in the state”. Informing further Mr. Limboo added that original rhododendron’s are only available in Sikkim state by virtue of which Sikkim is at the 2nd position in world and first in Asia but we have to protect and manage them properly”. Mr. Limboo further appealed the educated youth to start home stay facilities for attracting more tourists.

Whereas, area MLA Mr. Tenzing Sherpa in his address even appealed the people to make the festival successful and urged everybody to contribute to their fullest ability in making Sikkim the best tourism destination.

Mr. NK Subba former MLA and president of the organizing committee informed that “we have to choose sustainable job for which we have to turn the area into commercial so that those outside people coming to Sikkim to produce films can select the area for shooting”. Adding further Mr. Subba informed that today Sikkim is becoming famous in the country and world for its natural beauty which needs to be maintained and preserved by people at large and added that “We even have to focus on adventure tourism activities too”.

Likewise, PCCF cum Secretary, Forest, Environment and Wildlife Management department Mr. ST Lachungpa presented the annual report on rhododendron festival during the inaugural function. Adding further Mr. Lachungpa informed that there are around 38 species of rhododendron available in Sikkim and added that international companies are also lending their support for development, management and protection of rhododendrons of Sikkim.

 

Comment