Sikkim's Battlefield Tourism Initiative

Sikkim Chief Minister inaugurated significant tourist spots, Cho-La and Dok-La, on the India-China border as part of the Bharat Rannbhoomi Darshan initiative aimed at promoting battlefield tourism.

Vibrant Village Programme

The initiative is part of the Vibrant Village Programme, which aims to:

• Strengthen border area tourism.
• Create livelihood opportunities for local communities through regulated tourism activities.
• Promote awareness of military valor, sacrifices, and patriotism among visitors.
• Ensure security and environmental safeguards.

Geographical and Historical Significance

• Dok-La is located 68 km east of Gangtok, at an altitude of 13,780 feet, on a plateau at the tri-junction of Bhutan, China, and India.
• Doklam gained attention in June 2017 due to a standoff involving Chinese road construction in the territory claimed by Bhutan.
• India intervened to defend its strategic interests and protect Bhutan, leading to a cessation of construction activities after two months.
• Cho-La, perched at 17,780 feet, is accessible from Tamzey and is located near the Old Silk Route.

Tourism Infrastructure Development

• Sikkim has three sites under the Rannbhoomi Darshan initiative, with Nathu-La already being a popular tourist spot.
• Infrastructure improvements include cafeterias, restrooms, wayside amenities, and parking spaces developed in collaboration with the Army.

Sikkim's Integration into India

Sikkim became India's 22nd State in May 1975 following a referendum, with the majority favoring a merger with India.