Workshops focused on “Etiquette and Grooming for Tourist Taxi Drivers” in Geyzing, Soreng, and Namchi successfully concluded

Namchi, 4th August: The Department of Tourism and Civil Aviation, Government of Sikkim, in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, North Eastern Regional Office Guwahati, successfully concluded a series of workshops focused on “Etiquette and Grooming for Tourist Taxi Drivers” in Geyzing, Soreng, and Namchi on 4th, August. Workshops in Mangan, Gangtok, and Pakyong districts are yet to be completed.
The primary objective of these workshops was to enhance the professionalism and service quality of tourist taxi drivers, who are often the first point of contact for visitors. The program aimed to sensitize taxi drivers about the importance of etiquette, grooming, and their pivotal role in shaping tourists’ overall experience.
During the workshops, esteemed resource persons from various departments of Sikkim engaged with the taxi drivers, providing valuable insights into handling road medical emergencies, adhering to motor vehicle rules and regulations, understanding the diverse biodiversity of Sikkim, and imparting knowledge about different tourist destinations. Furthermore, the emphasis was placed on cultivating a customer-centric approach through effective etiquette and grooming.
These workshops underlined the significance of collaboration among various sectors, including transportation, health, police, local communities, hospitality industry, and environmental agencies, in ensuring a seamless and enriching tourism experience. Taxi drivers were encouraged to play a proactive role in promoting the state’s culture, heritage, and natural beauty.
During the technical sessions esteemed resource persons from the Department of Tourism and Civil Aviation (T&CAV) Mr. Sonam Sonam Rinchen Bhutia, Deputy Director, T&CAV, Ms. Lamin Theeng, Deputy Director, T&CAV, Ms. Dipti Rai, TO, TIC, Namchi, Ms. Deepa Gurung, TO, T&CAV delivered insightful lectures covering various crucial aspects of the tourist taxi driver profession. Further, from the Health Department and the District Motor Vehicle Office of Namchi, Dr. Kanchan Gurung, shared vital knowledge on handling road medical injuries and emergencies, also demonstrate the on giving CPR, while the Mr. Dorjee Wangel Bhutia, AMVI, and Mr. Esmile Manger, AMVI from District Motor Vehicle Office, Namchi, addressed motor vehicle rules and regulations, enhancing the drivers’ professionalism and compliance. Furthermore, very important session delivered by Ms. Laktsheden Theengh, Landscape coordinator from WWF- India (Khangchendzonga Landscape Programme- Sikkim Office), on biodiversity of Sikkim and its significance. She conducted captivating presentations on the biodiversity of Sikkim and its profound importance. She shed light on the endangered species native to Sikkim, elucidating the reasons behind their vulnerability and outlining strategies for their preservation, ensuring their legacy for future generations.
Ms. Lamin Theeng, Deputy Director of Namchi Tourist Information Center (TIC), T&CAV, emphasized various facets of tourism in Sikkim. She underscored the significance of possessing multilingual skills, including proficiency in the local language like Handi, to ensure effective communication with tourists. Ms. Theeng also stressed the importance of maintaining professional etiquette and grooming standards among taxi drivers and others involved in the tourism industry. Furthermore, she highlighted Sikkim’s recognition as a prominent tourist destination, as acknowledged by the esteemed Lonely Planet in 2014. Ms. Theeng accentuated the crucial role that the tourism business plays in Sikkim’s economy and development.
The participants found the workshops to be enlightening and valuable, gaining practical knowledge and skills that will not only enhance their professionalism but also contribute to elevating the overall perception of Sikkim as a tourist-friendly destination. As the workshops continue to roll out in other districts, the Department of Tourism and Civil Aviation reiterates its commitment to fostering a harmonious environment that benefits both the state and its visitors. These workshops are a testament to Sikkim’s dedication to sustainable and responsible tourism.
During the panel discussion taxi operators were given chance voice their opinions and share their experiences. Some of the significant topics discussed during the panel was the issues of protected area permit for foreign tourist to visit Tsomo Lake from Namchi, lack of tourist overnight stay in Namchi, registered travel agency of Namchi to be operate in proper office establishment. The major issue raised by tourist taxi operators of Namchi was the practice of W.B. vehicle operating local sightseeing in Namchi to be interrupted.
The workshop concluded with the distribution of certificates to the participants and a Vote of Thanks proposed by Ms. Poonam Pradhan, Sr. I.A. from TIC, Namchi.
(Press Release from Tourism & Civil Aviation Department)