Training cum crash course programme for tourist guide at IHCAE, Chemchey

Namchi, 25th August(IPR): The four-day long training cum crash course programme for tourist guides for the second batch of trainees organised by IHCAE, Chemchey in collaboration with the Department of Tourism and Civil Aviation, Government of Sikkim commenced at Indian Himalayan Centre for Adventure and Ecotourism (IHCAE), Chemchey, today.
The event had the presence of Chairman (STDC) Mr. Lokendra Rasaily as the Chief Guest and Chairman (UDD) Mr. KB Rai as the Guest of honour. Present during the programme were, JD cum Principal(IHCAE) Everester Mr. Kazi Sherpa, Administrator(IHCAE) Mr. Rajiv Rai, Deputy Director(Tourism) Ms. Lamin Theeng, AD(Tourism) Manoj Chettri, alongwith IHCAE instructors, Resource persons, and local gentry.
Addressing the gathering, Chairman Mr. Lokendra Rasaily underlined the scope of tourism business and the role of tourist guides in promotion of tourism. He said that with the rise of tourist footfall every year in the state, keeping up with quality services is necessary for the tourism industry. Therefore, tourist guides who act as an ambassador on behalf of the state, must possess skills to deliver good services in the hospitality sector.
Additionally, to augment the quality of tourism services, he informed that the State Government has revised the remunerated rates for the registered tourist guide, trekking guide, potter, etc for their services and making the profession a lucrative one. Further, the state government has also envisaged enhancing the rate for tourist guides who want to upscale their skills with specialization in botany, bird watching, pilgrims, etc. Moreover, he also spoke about the regional tour guide programme for the tour guide under the agies of the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India which will facilitate a specialized tour guide to operate in North Eastern State.
The Chairman Mr. K.B Rai in his address extended his gratitude to the State Goverment for organising such skill enhancing training programme. He also complimented the trainees for taking part and encouraged them to make efficient use of the knowledge imparted throughout the training.
During the programme, Principal Mr. Kazi Sherpa highlighted the aim and objectives of the programme, which is to enhance their capacity in handling tourists, understand the cultural background and travel destinations. Further, the trainees will also undergo practical lessons on life-saving skills as a part of the training.
It may be mentioned here that a total of 68 trainess are part of the second batch which will culminate on the 30th August.