Cho-La and Dok-La Pass opened under Ran Bhoomi Darshan initiative

GANGTOK, (IPR): Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang flagged off 25 motorbikes and vehicles in a ceremony held at Ridge Park on Monday morning, formally announcing the opening of Cho-La Pass and Dok-La Pass for tourism under the Ran Bhoomi Darshan initiative.
The flag-off ceremony was attended by Tourism minister T.T. Bhutia, MLA and Tourism department advisor Sudesh Subba, MLA Tenzing Norbu Lamtha, Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation (STDC) advisor Lukendra Rasaily and Tourism additional chief secretary C.S. Rao.
Addressing the media, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang stated that the opening of Cho-La and Dok-La Pass formed part of the Vibrant Village Programme, which aims to strengthen border area tourism and create livelihood opportunities for local communities through regulated tourism activities. He said that the initiative was made possible through coordination between the Central Government, State Government and Army authorities.
Referring to Ran Bhoomi Darshan, the Chief Minister stated that the initiative seeks to open strategically significant border areas through regulated tourism while highlighting their historical and military importance. He said that the programme, envisioned under the broader concept of battlefield tourism, would promote awareness of the valour and sacrifices of the Armed Forces, foster a sense of patriotism among visitors and create sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities, while maintaining strict security and environmental safeguards.
The Chief Minister further stated that infrastructure development in the area is underway and that required facilities would be provided to support tourism activities.
He also referred to the super car rally organised by Army personnel as part of Ran Bhoomi Darshan and stated that the initiative contributed to tourism promotion. He appreciated Major General MS Rathore and his team along with the organising team for the successful completion of the rally.
In his address, additional chief secretary C.S. Rao stated that the Tourism department had been working towards opening the passes for tourism for the past two months in coordination with Army authorities to ensure safe and smooth movement of tourists. He informed that the flagged-off convoy comprised 25 motorbikes and vehicles proceeding to Cho-La and Dok-La Pass.
He further stated that while infrastructure development was in progress, basic facilities had already been put in place. He added that the Ran Bhoomi Darshan circuit, developed as a battlefield tourism experience, would operate as a two-day package with homestay accommodation available at minimum charges and fixed vehicle rates.
The programme was organised by the Tourism department under the Ran Bhoomi Darshan initiative. The opening marks the commencement of regulated tourism activities to Cho-La and Dok-La Pass under the Ran Bhoomi Darshan circuit in coordination with concerned authorities.