Celebration of Graduation day of Sikkim Tourist Guide Training Programme at IHCAE, Chemchey

Namchi 4th September 2023 (IPR): The Tourism and Civil Aviation department proudly celebrated the resounding success of the graduation of Sikkim Tourist Guide Training Programme at the prestigious Indian Himalayan Centre for Adventure & Ecotourism (IHCAE) Chemchey, today. The event, which served as the final day of an enriching training journey, brought together trainees, instructors, and distinguished guests in a celebration of accomplishment and dedication.
The event was graced by Minister Tourism and Civil Aviation Department Mr. B.S. Panth as the Chief Guest. Chairman UDD Mr. K.B. Rai and Chairman STDC Mr. Lukendra Rasaily as Guest of Honour. Principal Chief Engineer, Tourism and Civil Aviation Department Mr. Neeraj Pardhan, Additional Secretary , Tourism and Civil Aviation Department Dr. Prerna Chamling and Sr.SP Namchi District Dr. Tshering Namgyal Gyatsho as Special Guest. Present among others were the Senior Officers of the concerned department, Stakeholders from various Tourism Association of Sikkim, Instructors and Resource Persons.
At the onset of the program, Mr. Kazi Sherpa, presented a brief report about the course offered to the trainees. He emphasised the paramount importance of the training course during the concluding ceremony. He addressed the Issues and Challenges faced in Adventure tourism, shedding light on the potential solutions and opportunities that lie ahead. He stated that the training program had spanned multiple batches demonstrating commitment to enhancing the Adventure tourism landscape in Sikkim. He also reflected about the inaugural batch which was held from August 19 to 22 where 66 tour guides had participated. Subsequently, the second batch, from August 25 to 28, featured 70 tour guides. The third and final batch, from August 31 to September 3, focused on trekking guides and trekking cooks, with a total enrolment of 40/102 and 40/21, respectively, bringing the grand total of trained guides to an impressive 359. He further discussed about the crucial aspects
faced as the tourist guide such as the indispensable role of a tourist guides and trekking guides in shaping the State ‘s Tourism Industry and positive impact their expertise has on visitors aspects.
The Chief Guest during his address extended his appreciation and heartfelt congratulations to the participants for their dedication and commitment. He applauded the department’s initiative in providing training to promote Adventure tourism and foster professionalism within the sector. He also emphasised the invaluable contribution of stakeholders who have tirelessly worked towards boosting Adventure Tourism in the state, acknowledging their pivotal role in the industry’s growth.
Further, he highlighted the rapid growth of the tourism sector in Sikkim. He informed about the existing barriers within the industry and expressed optimism that can overcome with collective effort and determination. He also shed light on the challenges that the Department of Tourism has been facing.
In a promising development, he mentioned Tourism Travel Fair (TTF) initiatives, emphasising their role in facilitating visits to foreign countries. These initiatives demonstrate the state’s commitment to expanding tourism beyond its borders and promoting international tourism opportunities.
He appealed to all stakeholders and participants to contribute actively to the progressive development of tourism in Sikkim. He stressed the importance of organising programs like this more frequently to nurture talent and enhance the industry.
In his closing remarks, the Chief Guest
expressed gratitude to the organisers, instructors, resource persons, trainees, and everyone involved in the training program for their dedication and hard work. He recognised their vital role in shaping the future of tourism in Sikkim and assured that comprehensive reports on various issues would be presented to the Chief Minister for consideration.
It is to be mentioned here that the training program saw a comprehensive course syllabus which emphasised the importance of a well-rounded course curriculum, which covered essential areas such as Camping and Field Training, the Responsibilities and Duties of Guides, Search and Rescue techniques, Medical procedures, and knowledge about Sikkim’s Adventure Tourism Destinations. This curriculum was specifically crafted to provide guides with the necessary knowledge and skill development, making it a central component of their training.
The Professional Instructors of the Training were:
Mr. Anand Gurung
Ms. Shanti Rai
Mr. Amos Gurung
Mr. Ashal Rai
Mr. Manoj Chettri
Mr. Wangdi lama
Mr. Mohan Darnal
A special mention was made during the programme to acknowledge the invaluable contribution of the sponsors who made this training initiative possible. Namely:
Khangri tour and treks
Adarsh tour and expedition
Galaxy tours and travel
Sikkim hotel and restaurant association (SHRA)
Homestay Associations’ of Sikkim
Chalamthang homestay /rural tourism, Training and research centre
Ministry of tourism (MOT)
The program also witnessed a certificate and memento awarded to the Promising Guide during the Course.
Namely:
Tour Guide batch 1
1. Miss Rinchen Doma Lepcha, Mangan District
2. Mr. Chewang Rinchen Bompo, kewzing, Namchi District
Tour Guide batch 2
1.Miss Ninzey Lamu Lepcha, Dzongu Mangan District
2. Mr. Shiva Luitel, Gerethang, Gaylsing District.
Trekking Guide batch 1.
1.Miss Phung Hangma subba, Yuksam, Gaylsing District
2. Mr. Reshap Gurung Yuksam, Gaylsing District.
Trekking Cook Batch 1.
1.Mr. Chandra Hang Limboo Yuksam, Gaylsing district
Furthermore, the trainees performed a theme song aimed at fostering unity and integrity among the guides. This song serves as a symbol of their commitment to working together harmoniously.
Birds of Sikkim “A pictorial guide to 100 Birds of Sikkim” authored by Mr. Chewang Rinchen Bompo, Mr. Nosang Limboo and Mr.Peter Lobo was also released during the event.
The event was further enriched by a Visual presentation highlighting ICHAE and demonstration of sport climbing on a specially designed wall displaying the enthusiasm for adventure sports.

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