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EIA LAB – EP 2010 Strategic Environmental Assessment – Sikkim Tourism Policy

2010



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Contents 1 Executive Summary .............................................................................................................................. 6 2 Introduction ........................................................................................................................................... 8

2.1 Introduction to SEA ...................................................................................................................... 8 2.1.1 SEA - As a front-line instrument ........................................................................................ 8 2.1.2 Strategic Environmental Assessment Stages ...................... Error! Bookmark not defined.

2.2 Introduction to Sikkim .................................................................................................................. 8 2.3 History of Sikkim: ......................................................................................................................... 9

3 Aims and Objectives ........................................................................................................................... 11 3.1 Aim ............................................................................................................................................. 11 3.2 Objectives ................................................................................................................................... 11

3.2.1 Methodology ....................................................................................................................... 11 4 Review of Major Thrust Areas Of Sikkim .......................................................................................... 12

4.1 Introduction: ................................................................................................................................ 12 4.1.1 Sikkim’s GSDP: .................................................................................................................. 12 4.1.2 Key Industries in Sikkim: ................................................................................................... 13

4.2 IT Policy of Sikkim, 2006: .......................................................................................................... 13 4.2.1 IT Policy Initiatives: ............................................................................................................ 13

4.3 Industrial policy of Sikkim, 2007: .............................................................................................. 13 4.3.1 Industrial Policy Initiatives: ................................................................................................ 14

4.4 Sikkim Tourism Policy, 2010: .................................................................................................... 14 4.4.1 Tourism Policy Initiatives and Objectives: ......................................................................... 14

5 SIKKIM TOURISM POLICY 2010 ................................................................................................... 15 5.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................................. 15

5.1.1 Evolution of Tourism in Sikkim: ........................................................................................ 15 5.1.2 Tourism Trend in Sikkim: ................................................................................................... 16

5.2 Mission Statements of Sikkim Tourism Policy 2010: ................................................................. 17 5.3 Development of Tourism Infrastructure: .................................................................................... 18 5.4 Major Tourism Thrust Areas in Sikkim: ..................................................................................... 18

5.4.1 Eco -Tourism: ..................................................................................................................... 19 5.4.2 Village/Rural Tourism: ....................................................................................................... 19 5.4.3 Adventure Tourism / Adventure Sports: ............................................................................. 19 5.4.4 Wellness, Health, Yoga & Herbal Medical Tourism: ......................................................... 19 5.4.5 Forests & Wildlife Tourism: ............................................................................................... 20 5.4.6 Bio-diversity Tourism: ........................................................................................................ 20 5.4.7 Flori-Tourism: ..................................................................................................................... 20 5.4.8 MICE Tourism: Meetings, Incentives, Convention and Exhibition: .................................. 20 5.4.9 Nature and Trekking Tourism: ............................................................................................ 21 5.4.10 Fairs and Festivals Tourism: ............................................................................................... 21 5.4.11 Arts Crafts and Souvenir Tourism: ..................................................................................... 21 5.4.12 Pilgrimage Tourism: ........................................................................................................... 21 5.4.13 Premium Tourists Destinations: .......................................................................................... 22 5.4.14 Heli Tourism: ...................................................................................................................... 22

5.5 Creation and Management of World Class Infrastructure: ......................................................... 22 5.5.1 Roads: ................................................................................................................................. 22 5.5.2 Railways: ............................................................................................................................. 22 5.5.3 Airport: ................................................................................................................................ 22



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5.5.4 Transport: ............................................................................................................................ 22 5.5.5 Accommodation: ................................................................................................................. 23 5.5.6 Modern Wayside Amenities- Washrooms-Motels: ............................................................. 23

5.6 Responsible Tourism: ................................................................................................................. 23 6 Need for SEA for Sikkim Tourism Policy 2010 ................................................................................. 24

6.1 Introduction: ................................................................................................................................ 24 6.2 Environmental sensitiveness of Sikkim: ..................................................................................... 25 6.3 Environmental Clearance & Legislations: .................................................................................. 25 6.4 Sikkim Tourism Policy 2010 and Need for SEA: ....................................................................... 26 6.5 Conflicts between Sikkim Environmental Policy and Sikkim Tourism Policy: ......................... 27 6.6 Tourist Influx and Investments in Tourism Sector: .................................................................... 28

7 Field Study .......................................................................................................................................... 29 7.1 Primary Surveys .......................................................................................................................... 29 7.2 Focus group Discussions: ............................................................................................................ 29

7.2.1 FGD’s with the Drivers Association: .................................................................................. 29 7.2.2 FGD’s with the Hotels Association: ................................................................................... 29 7.2.3 Hotels in Sikkim.................................................................................................................. 30 7.2.4 FGD’s with the Villagers (Village Tourism): ..................................................................... 30

7.3 Analysis ....................................................................................................................................... 31 7.4 Sikkim Tourist Circuits ............................................................................................................... 32 7.5 Case Studies ................................................................................................................................ 34

7.5.1 Case study: Ropeway Project, Namchi ............................................................................... 35 7.5.2 Case Study: Kabi Village, North Sikkim ............................................................................ 36 7.5.3 Case Study :Sramsa Garden, Ranipool ............................................................................... 37 7.5.4 Case Study: Prision Tourism ............................................................................................... 38 7.5.5 Case Study: Singtam Water Garden .................................................................................... 39 7.5.6 Case Study: Banjakri Water Falls ....................................................................................... 40 7.5.7 Case Study – Kanchenzonga Tourist Villa ......................................................................... 41 7.5.8 Case study: Pelling .............................................................................................................. 42 7.5.9 Case Study: Kanchanzonga Water falls & Khechuperi Wishing Lake ............................... 43 7.5.10 Case Study :Char dham, South Sikkim ............................................................................... 44 7.5.11 Case Study : Nature Own Bon Farm House,Kewzing, South Sikkim ................................ 45 7.5.12 Case Study: Maniram Tourist Village................................................................................. 46

8 Scoping of Components ...................................................................................................................... 47 8.1 Descriptive Checklist .................................................................................................................. 47

8.1.1 Projects identified ............................................................................................................... 47 8.1.2 Project Scoring: ................................................................................................................... 47 8.1.3 Scoping Conclusion: ........................................................................................................... 49

9 Base line Scenario ............................................................................................................................... 50 9.1 Physiographic Features ............................................................................................................... 50

9.1.1 Location & geography ........................................................................................................ 50 9.1.2 Climate ................................................................................................................................ 51 9.1.3 Flora .................................................................................................................................... 51 9.1.4 Fauna ................................................................................................................................... 52 9.1.5 People .................................................................................................................................. 52 9.1.6 Geology of sikkim ............................................................................................................... 52 9.1.7 Geomorphology .................................................................................................................. 53 9.1.8 Natural resources................................................................................................................. 54 9.1.9 Climate ................................................................................................................................ 55 9.1.10 Temperature ........................................................................................................................ 55 9.1.1 Rainfall ................................................................................................................................ 56



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10 Infrastructure ................................................................................................................................... 57 10.1 State Programmes: ...................................................................................................................... 57

10.1.1 National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) ...................................................... 57 10.1.2 Pradhan Mantri Gramin Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) .............................................................. 58 10.1.3 Accelerated Rural Water Supply Programme (ARWSP):................................................... 58 10.1.4 Total Sanitation Campaign (TSC): ..................................................................................... 58 10.1.5 Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM): ..................................... 58 10.1.6 Rajiv Gandhi Gramin Vidyutikaran Yojana (RGGVY):..................................................... 58 10.1.7 Indira Awaas Yojana: .......................................................................................................... 59

11 Socio-Economic Condition ............................................................................................................. 60 12 Impact Identification ....................................................................................................................... 62

12.1 Receptor Sensitivity .................................................................................................................... 62 12.1.1 Special Criteria Regions ...................................................................................................... 62 12.1.2 Developable Areas .............................................................................................................. 62 12.1.3 Zoning the Tourist Activity ................................................................................................. 62

12.2 RECEPTOR SENSITIVITY ....................................................................................................... 63 12.3 Model Development .................................................................................................................... 64

13 Impact Prediction ............................................................................................................................ 67 13.1 Projected Tourist Inflow ............................................................................................................. 67

13.1.1 Impact Prediction: ............................................................................................................... 68 13.1.2 Impact Prediction – Trekking Development ....................................................................... 69 13.1.3 Overall impact assessment .................................................................................................. 70 13.1.4 Location Criteria for Tourist Activity ................................................................................. 71

14 Environmental Management Plan (EMP) ....................................................................................... 73 14.1 Strategic environmental management framework (semf) ........................................................... 73 14.2 Summary Recommendations for predicted impacts: .................................................................. 73 14.3 Safeguard Measures for Tourism activities & Stakeholder Analysis: ........................................ 74

14.3.1 Cultural Tourism: ................................................................................................................ 75 14.3.2 Trekking Tourism: .............................................................................................................. 75 14.3.3 Village Tourism: Infrastructure for environmental improvement ....................................... 76 14.3.4 Adventure Tourism: ............................................................................................................ 76 14.3.5 Premium Destination Tourism: ........................................................................................... 78

14.4 Effective Communication Strategies: ......................................................................................... 79 14.5 Overall Management Framework ............................................................................................... 79 Tourist Survey( ...................................................................................................................................... 81



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List Of Figures Figure 4-1: Policy Thrust Areas of Sikkim ................................................................................................. 12 Figure 4-2: Sikkim’s GSDP Growth Rate ................................................................................................... 12 Figure 4-3 : % Distribution of GSDP, Sikkim ............................................................................................ 13 Figure 5-1-Tourists Influx trends in Sikkim, 1980-2007 ............................................................................ 16 Figure 6-1: Schematics of tourism development (source: Butler and Murphy) .......................................... 24 Figure 7-1- Tourist circuit map ................................................................................................................... 32 Figure 10-1: Utilization Capacity ............................................................................................................... 57 Figure 12-1: Flowchart for the Socio-economic Model .............................................................................. 64 Figure 12-2: Flowchart for the Utilization Capacity Model ....................................................................... 64 Figure 12-3 -Proposed projects location ..................................................................................................... 66 Figure 14-1: Strategic Environmental Management Framework is outcome of initial assessment of Sikkim .................................................................................................................................................................... 73 List Of Tables Table 1 : Evolution of Tourism Sector in Sikkim ....................................................................................... 16 Table 2- Projects identified for Scoping ..................................................................................................... 47 Table 3- Scoping of Parameters .................................................................................................................. 49 Table 4- Receptor Sensitivity Parameters ................................................................................................... 63 Table 5- Tourist Projections ........................................................................................................................ 67 Table 6- Projected tourist traffic inflow ...................................................................................................... 67 Table 7 - District wise share of Tourist Activities ...................................................................................... 68 Table 8- Impact Prediction .......................................................................................................................... 70 Table 9- Overall Impact Assessment .......................................................................................................... 71 Table 10- Location criteria for Tourist Activity ......................................................................................... 71



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1 Acknowledgement

We take this opportunity in expressing our gratitude and thanks to our faculty Prof. B. Saswat, Dr.

S.K. Acharya for their guidance, help, support and valuable suggestions to improve our work

throughout the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Lab duration. With their enthusiasm,

inspiration, and great efforts to explain things clearly and simply a tough job of EIA approach

became easier and a true learning experience.

We are grateful to the Urban Housing and Development Authority of Gangtok as they helped

immensely during our study and we again express our gratitude to Dr. S.K. Acharya for providing

us with the required contacts in Sikkim..

We are greatly privileged to express our deep sense of gratitude Mr. Baduria, Secretary of Sikkim

Tourism Department, KN Topgay, Mayor of Gangtok Municipal Corporation, Mr. Anil Roy,

Municipal Commissioner of Gangtok Municipal Corporation, Mr. Sandeep Thambe, Assistant

Director of RM&MD, for providing the secondary data in Sikkim

We are also thankful and indebted to people & tourists of Sikkim for their cooperation, support and

patience during our surveys, case studies and focus group discussions.

We are also thankful to Mr. Subhransu G, Mr. Ajay K, and Mr. Mahroof for their valuable input

during the internal reviews. Last but not the least we are thankful to our team for our efforts, support

during deadlines and entertainment, for all those tiffs between us during pressure. We would like to

give a special mention to Regional EIA and Project Specific EIA team, for maintaining a competitive

spirit throughout the lab, thus motivating us to develop a good output.

SEA TEAM



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2 Executive Summary

Strategic Environmental Assessment is a systematic, on-going process for evaluating, the environmental

quality, and consequences, of development intentions incorporated in policy, planning or programme

initiatives, ensuring full integration of relevant biophysical, economic, social and political considerations.

The objective is to develop more sound and environmentally-sensitive policies and plans incorporating

the necessary requirements for the subsequent development of projects.

The Ecological fragility and pristine nature of Sikkim attracted tourist from last few decades. The

Government started identifying tourism as a major economic driver. Corresponding to this development

Sikkim initiated several green programmes and visions to develop Sikkim as an Organic state. The draft

Tourism policy of 2010 places this point right ahead.

Unlike a project specific EIA which is legally mandatory, SEA is of recent origin in India. The need for

Strategic Environment Assessment has been derived from fact that tourist flow would bring about stress

in regions having carrying capacity limitations. The level of acceptability of tourist inflow highly depends

on the carrying capacity of the given setting in terms of infrastructure, amenities human resources and

attitude of host population. This made us sensitive to the fact that any policy of this nature which would

guide the programmes and activities at local level has to be responsive to Environmental, socio cultural

and Heritage issues which make Sikkim stand unique.

The methodology adopted in a usual project specific EIA had been taken up and parameters that are

linked to tourism and Environment have been identified. The Tourism and stakeholder surveys though

conducted in an off season helped us understand the issues related to infrastructure augmentation, societal

problems due to increased influx, cultural mix leading to an undesirable loss of Regional character. A

receptor sensitivity model has been developed which would enable us to grade the region in terms of its

potential to take up an additional activity.

The concentration of tourist activities has been studied and impact predictions have been developed in

view of the tourist projections for the year 2020.A suggestive framework of Recommendations and

activity citation criteria have been developed. Safe guard measures for tourist activities in special criteria

regions have been formulated. A brief stakeholder analysis stipulating their roles and responsibilities has

been developed.



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3 Introduction 3.1 Introduction to SEA SEA is a systematic, on-going process for evaluating, at the earliest appropriate stage of publicly accountable decision-making, the environmental quality, and consequences, of alternative visions and development intentions incorporated in policy, planning or programme initiatives, ensuring full integration of relevant biophysical, economic, social and political considerations.

3.1.1 SEA - As a front-line instrument

More sound and environmentally-sensitive policies and plans would incorporate the necessary requirements for the subsequent development of projects. It is often presented as an assessment tool contributive to the accountability of natural capital depletion, helping to focus on maintaining the “source and sink” functions of natural systems or assisting the decision-making process by influencing the design of more sustainable policies and strategies. Integration of environmental concerns in policy and planning processes. Levels of decision-making in environmental assessment

Policy Road-map with defined objectives, set priorities, rules and mechanisms to implement objectives

Planning Priorities, options and measures for resource allocation according to resource suitability and availability, following the orientation, and implementing, relevant sectoral and global policies.

Programme Organized agenda with defined objectives to be achieved during programme implementation, with specification of activities and programmes investments, in the framework of relevant policies and plans

Project A detailed proposal, scheme or design of any development action or activity, which represents an investment, involves construction works and implements policy / planning objectives.

3.2 Introduction to Sikkim Sikkim is the 22nd state of India came into existence with effect from 26th April, 1975. Sikkim has been divided into four districts and each district has further been bifurcated into two sub-divisions for administrative purpose. Being a part of inner mountain ranges of Himalayas, it is hilly having varied elevation ranging from 300 to 8540 meters. But the habitable areas are only up to the altitude of 2100 mt constituting only 20% of the total area of the state. The highest portion of sikkim lies in its north west



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direction. A large number of mountains having altitudes of about seven thousand meters stands here with - Kanchenjunga (8598 m.), The third highest peak in the world. The high serrated, snow capped spurs and peaks of Kanchenjunga look attractive consisting of Kumbha Karna (7711 m.), Pendem (6706 m.), Narsingh (5825 m.), Kabru Dome (6545 m.), etc. A number of glaciers descends from eastern slopes of Kanchenjunga into Sikkim where snow clad line is found above 5300 mtrs. The biggest of them is Zemu, from whose snout above Lachen monastery rises the river Teesta. Teesta is the main river and its main tributaries are Zemu, Lachung, Rangyong, Dikchu, Rongli, Rangpo and Rangit which form the main channel of drainage from the north to the south. It boasts of the great mount Kanchendzonga as its crown. Ethically Sikkim has mainly three groups of people viz. Nepalis, Bhutias, Lepchas. The local language is Nepali. English is the official language. This jewel- like mountain state of ethereal beauty with an area of 7299 sq. kms , nestles in the heart of Himalayas. Cradled in the manifold splendors of nature deep within the snow clad Himalayas is Sikkim's capital Gangtok. Wrapped in mists and clouds, a garden state with an incredible variety of rhododendrons & a host of other flowers.

3.3 History of Sikkim:

Not much is known about Sikkim's ancient history, except for the fact that the first inhabitants were the Lepchas or Rong (ravine folk). They were later encompassed and absorbed by other clans. Sikkim also finds its mention on many Hindu texts as Indrakil or garden of Lord Indra. The timeline for the history of Sikkim is given below:

1730: The gompa was built during the time of 12th Karmapa, Jangchub Dorje (1703-1732.) At that time, Gyurme Namgyal, the fourth Chogyal of Sikkim, was a devotee of Karmapa and in1730, he had this first Kagyu monastery constructed in the southern region of Sikkim. Adecade later, he built two more Kagyu monasteries, one at Phodong in the north and another at Rumtek, in east Sikkim

1817: Mutual distrust between bhotias and Nepalese

1901: The first regular census of Sikkim, in 1901, returned the population at 59014, showing an apparent increase of nearly twofold in the decade. Of the total, 65% were Hindus and 35% Buddhists. The Lepchas, supposed to be the original inhabitants, numbered only 8000, while no less than 23000 were immigrants from Nepal.

1965: The Chinese ultimatum to India to dismantle outposts near the Sikkim border is about as cunning a move as Peking could think up. Like so many other Chinese ... nose ...Until a decade ago, there had been no reversal of the position which had prevailed while the British held India

1975: On May 16, 1975, Sikkim was officially made the 22nd state of the Indian Union, thus ending the era of the Chogyal monarchy.

2000: Millions of Buddhists outside of Tibet have been waiting for decades to receive his blessings. Tenzin Chonyi, who spoke yesterday with monks in India

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2005: India reiterated in the statement that it believed Tibet to be a part of Chinese territory; Tibetans, led by the Dalai Lama, have clamored for independence for decades. China in turn has recognized Sikkim, a tiny Himalayan finger poking into Tibet, as Indian territory.

2006: on 7th July, Asian giants India and China, this week, reopened an ancient cross-border trade route over this misty, wind-swept pass across the high Himalayas.

2009: The Exim Bank has recommended to the State Government that new plantations should replace the older ones as most cardamom plantations in Sikkim were at least three decades old resulting in declining species.



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4 Aims and Objectives if u "Thousands of tired, nerve-shaken, over-civilized people are beginning to find out that going to the mountains is going home; that wilderness is a necessity; and that mountain parks and reservations are useful not only as fountains of timber and irrigating rivers, but as fountains of life."

— John Muir

4.1 Aim Evolve a Strategic environmental Impact assessment of Sikkim tourism policy 2010.

4.2 Objectives To study the existing scenario of tourism and its impacts To identify the environmental, Social, Economic & Institutional consequences of proposed

policy/Program/plan. To Develop Environment management framework and Screening Criteria for the next level EIA.

4.2.1 Methodology

SCREENING

Review of Developmental policies of Sikkim

Preliminary examination of Tourism Thrust

Assessment of need for SEA of Tourism policy

SCOPING

Checklist method to identify sectors for Detailed Description

District wise tourist investment criteria

BASE LINE SCENARIO

Socio Economic Infrastructure Landform

Conservation Areas Heritage Sites Special criteria

IMPACT IDENTIFICATION

Impact of identified Tourist activities on Social, Environmental and Economic parameters

Scoring the above parameters to develop a Receptor Sensitivity model.

Classification of Tourist activities on basis of Receptor Sensitivity.

Developing Location criteria for specific Tourist activities

Projected tourist inflow on basis of proposed projects and existing tourist flow.

IMPACT PREDICTION

ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN

Recommendations for predicted impacts, Safeguard measures for tourism activities in Special Criteria regions

Stakeholder analysis, Communication strategy


Screening and Scoping Baseline Scenario Impact Identification Impact Prediction Environment Management Plan

EIA LAB – EP 2010 Strategic Environment Assessment – Sikkim Tourism Policy 2010

5 Review of Major Thrust Areas Of Sikkim “Our interest on the ecological front, our commitment to social justice, our strive for a high growth regime and our conviction to make Sikkim heaven on earth should all be reflected in both the national and State plans of the next five years. The higher the level of attainment we have, the higher will be the degree of happiness and tranquillity in the State. Our Government is totally committed to this, dedicated to achieve this and will strive to come out with flying colours”. ----- Pawan Chamling, Chief Minister of Sikkim

Abstract: This chapter discusses about the major policy thrust areas of Sikkim like Industrial policy, Information Technology policy, and Tourism policy for its economic growth and the activities proposed in each of the policies which may have direct or indirect impact on the natural and social environment of the Sikkim and it was observed that small and medium Hydro power dams and tourism related activities have a major impact on the natural and social environment of the Sikkim.

Keywords: Policies, Economic growth, natural resources, Industries, Information Technology, Tourism, Environment.

5.1 Introduction: Sikkim is naturally endowed with rich flora and fauna and its climate and topographical conditions support industries such as agriculture, horticulture, food processing, bamboo industry, tourism and information sector. The state follows the North East Industrial Investment promotion policy which provides several incentives and concessions for investment in the state. Also the state has a stable political setup with a single party government which is committed towards creating a progressive business environment.

5.1.1 Sikkim’s GSDP:

At current prices, the total Gross State Domestic product of Sikkim was about US $ 585.2 million in 2007-08 and it grew at a CAGR of 13.9% between 1999-2000 to 2007-08 which was among one of the highest recorded growth rates. Sikkim’s economy is mainly driven by the secondary and tertiary sectors. The secondary sector has been the fastest growing sector, at a CAGR of 13 per cent between 1999-2000 and 2007-08 and it is driven by construction and

Figure 5-1: Policy Thrust Areas of Sikkim

Figure 5-2: Sikkim’s GSDP Growth Rate




hydroelectric power generation. At over 69 per cent, the tertiary sector is the largest contributor to Sikkim’s economy. It grew at a CAGR of 10.6 per cent and is driven by trade, hotels, real estate, transport and communications and tourism related activities. The primary sector’s share in the GSDP has been consistent at 25.3 per cent, driven mainly by agriculture. It recorded a CAGR of 10.4 per cent between 1999-2000 to 2007-08. Trade, tourism, transportation and agriculture have been the key drivers of the increase in per capita GSDP of Sikkim.

5.1.2 Key Industries in Sikkim:

The Commerce and Industries Department of Sikkim is involved in promotion of trade and industry in the state and Sikkim Industrial Development & Investment Corporation Limited (SIDICO) is the state-level institution engaged in promoting, financing and developing the tiny and small scale industries (SSI) sector in the state. Eco-tourism, handicrafts and handlooms, silk reeling and processing, precision engineering, electronics, IT, medicinal plants, floriculture, tea, spices, honey and biotechnology are thrust areas identified by the state and being a potentially eco-fragile location, the people of Sikkim support promotion of pollution-free industries.

5.2 IT Policy of Sikkim, 2006: The Information Technology Policy of Sikkim was formulated in July 2006 with the objectives like ensuring greater accountability through E-Governance, employment generation in the primary sector, Computerization of all records, to map the resources of the state and to make Sikkim a totally literate state. Information technology as a service industry is not characterized by high transportation costs and is environmental friendly.

5.2.1 IT Policy Initiatives:

Software Technology Parks will be established at vantage locations in the state to provide incubation space to prospective entrepreneurs who want to take up software development, setting up of Call Centre, Business Process Outsourcing etc.In case of resource mapping, All old heritage records in monasteries, libraries, state archives will be digitized. All gazettes and notifications will also be digitized, the rich biodiversity of Sikkim which include its flora and fauna would be inventoried through bioinformatics, All natural (viz forest, rivers etc) and manmade (roads, PHC sewerage pipes etc) resources will be mapped through Geographical Information System (GIS), using Satellite imagery, disaster prone areas (viz landslide, glacial outburst) will be identified and monitored and The Human resource of the state specially those persons practicing traditional medicine etc will be kept in a database. All the above mentioned activities have a mostly positive impact on the natural and social environment because it helps in creating a proper database of natural environment which will be very useful and also creates a good employment opportunities.

5.3 Industrial policy of Sikkim, 2007: Sikkim is one of the least industrially developed states in India because it is not possible to develop any heavy or large scale industries due to its geo physical location. The current industrial scenario is not very encouraging. As on 31/03/2008 there were 1683 provisionally registered and 313 permanently registered

Figure 5-3 : % Distribution of GSDP, Sikkim




private sector industrial units, most of which are in the tiny or small sector promoted by first generation entrepreneurs. There are 14 State Public Sector Enterprises but no Central Government Public Sector Units in the State. The thrust areas identified by the government of Sikkim for Industrial Development are Agro-based industries, Floriculture, Animal husbandry and dairy products, Minor forest based produce, handloom, handicrafts and village industries, Tourism, electronic and software industries, Tea industries and small & medium hydro power plants.

5.3.1 Industrial Policy Initiatives:

The policy envisages for creation of an atmosphere conducive to industrial growth, taking into consideration the available natural resources and the local socio-economic environment, Rehabilitation of sick industries with comprehensive assistance and guidance from the Department of Industry, privatization of State Public Sector Undertakings, ensuring balanced regional development through promotion of Khadi, Village, cottage, and tiny, small and ancillary industries, Promotion of the traditional handloom, handicrafts and artisan sector, by providing adequate support in the form of common facilities like service centers cheap raw material, technical inputs, marketing network skill development, development of tourism as an industry and development of Sikkim as a major centre for manufacture & marketing of tea. Out of all these thrust areas of Industrial policy of Sikkim, Tourism and Hydro Power Plants have a major impact on the Natural and Social environment of the Sikkim which need to be assessed.

5.4 Sikkim Tourism Policy, 2010: Tourism in the State of Sikkim is growing at a rapid pace in a very well thought of and planned manner. The policy document seeks to make tourism sector a main civil industry and as a major engine of economic growth of State, to enhance employment potential as well as to foster economic integration through developing linkages with other sectors.

5.4.1 Tourism Policy Initiatives and Objectives:

The key initiatives and objectives of Sikkim Tourism Policy are to promote community based ecotourism with the use of participatory management techniques, Promotion of rural tourism, adventure/sports tourism, medical tourism, trekking, natural tourism, culture and heritage tourism, cave tourism, monsoon tourism, tea tourism, etc., through PPP projects, to build the infrastructure for connectivity required to access the tourist spots, Single-window system for clearance of private investments in the tourism sector, to provide concessions in luxury tax, service tax, service charges, electricity and water charges, and financial assistance on the capital outlay and to provide legal support and regulations to protect the industry. Ministry of tourism had laid an The outlay of Rs. 105 crores for NER & Sikkim for the schemes relating to tourism and related Infrastructure Development and a revenue and capital expenditure in Tourism infrastructure development was 782.5 Lakhs envisioned as per 10th V year plan.(Annual Report 2006, Dept. of Sikkim Tourism) with a growth rate of 25.77% on the expenditure on tourism related infrastructure for 1999-2007. As most of the tourism related activities are spread over a large area and also within the environmentally sensitive areas like protected areas, wild life sanctuaries, etc.and also there is a huge amount of investment in this sector which may have positive and negative impacts on the natural and social environment of the Sikkim. Hence it is necessary to assess the tourism policy by carrying out a strategic environment assessment of the tourism policy of Sikkim.




6 SIKKIM TOURISM POLICY 2010 ““All options for tourism development must serve effectively to improve the quality of life of all people and must influence the socio-culture enrichment of each destination” ----- Pawan Chamling, Chief Minister of Sikkim Abstract: The natural environment of Sikkim and its rich cultural diversity provide congenial conditions for the growth of Tourism. The potential of tourism for the economy is well recognized in the state and the analyses of tourist influx suggest favourable trends and progressive state of growth for the development of tourism. The Sikkim Tourism Policy 2010 attempts to position tourism as a major engine of economic growth and harness the direct and multiplier effects of tourism for employment generation, economic development and providing impetus to rural/village tourism and to create and develop integrated tourism circuits based on different special themes, special tourism products, and premium tourists destinations by involving private stakeholders and promoting PPP mode. Keywords: Tourism, Policy Thrust Areas, Tourist Infrastructure, Stakeholders, Eco-Tourism, Responsible Tourism

6.1 Introduction Sikkim is a hilly State nestled in the Eastern Himalayas which takes pride in its natural beauty manifested by the snow clad mountains, landscape dotted with perennial streams & waterfalls, lush green forests, picturesque villages, natives in traditional dresses and indigenous architecture. The crime free society adds to the natural attractions of the state, making it one of the most sought after tourist destination in the country. Sikkim’s unique beauty, splendour with its lush green and undisturbed valleys, five climatic zones, peaceful environment, total sanitation, environment friendly, hospitable & smiling people and a rich cultural heritage acted as a main driving force for the evolution of tourism sector and it is one of the priorities and important sector of the State and it is to become the main economy of the State development.

6.1.1 Evolution of Tourism in Sikkim:

Year

Government Action

Tourism scenario

Activities promoted

1980-1990

started promoting Tourism in 1980

Mostly it was neglected because of very strict inner line permits and disinterest of domestic tourists.

Nature based tourism was promoted.

1990-1997

The rules for acquiring inner line permits have been eased.

In 1990’s Tourism sector started picking up because of conscious tourism development plan and also due to political disturbance in other hills including Darjeeling and Jammu and Kashmir.

Development of tourism related infrastructure and emphasis on Eco-Tourism. Institute of Hotel Management was setup in 1990

Tata economic consultancy services prepared the “Tourism

Accelerating Growth

Started promoting




1998

master plan for Sikkim”-2008-11 Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation was established.

rate of Tourism sector.

pilgrimage and Buddhist tourism

2002-2009

Under National Tourism Policy, 20 years perspective plan for tourism was developed by Government of Sikkim in 2002

Growth rate of 15 % PA for International tourists and 20 % PA for Domestic tourist Arrival.

Started promoting village tourism

2010

Draft Sikkim Tourism Policy-2010 by Government of Sikkim.

Addition of 1 lakh tourists per year is estimated

To encourage tourism thrust areas like Wildlife tourism, village tourism, Pilgrimage tourism, All season Tourism, Prison tourism, etc. Development of Infrastructure with involvement of various public and private stakeholders.

Table 1 : Evolution of Tourism Sector in Sikkim

6.1.2 Tourism Trend in Sikkim:

The general trend of tourism growth, based on the last 28 years of data, i.e. 1980–2007 shows that presently tourism in Sikkim is mainly of the domestic kind; foreign tourists comprise only 5.5% of the annual tourist influx. The pattern obtained for the tourist rush shows small initial fluctuations from 1980 to 1987, a linear trend from 1987 till 2000–01, and thereafter a steep rise in the trends with tourist numbers increasing every year. Though the tourists come to Sikkim all round the year, the main rush is confined to summer months and autumn season; the autumn rush is considered to be more pronounced during the Dussehra festival.

Figure 6-1-Tourists Influx trends in Sikkim, 1980-2007




6.2 Mission Statements of Sikkim Tourism Policy 2010:

• To make Tourism as a major engine of economic growth, employment generator and poverty alleviator.

• Promoting sustainable development of tourism and encouraging the private sectors to develop tourism related infrastructure & services without disturbing ecology and environment.

• Establish and strengthen the Institution of Network of Stakeholders (INS) which is Government led, private sector driven and community welfare oriented.

• The deep‐rooted relationship of tourism and culture, traditions, monuments, heritage, natural resources, environment, forests, wildlife & ecology will be fully recognized and provided for improvement, enrichment and up gradation and it will be considered as a linchpin of the tourism industry.

• Greater emphasis will be laid on eco‐tourism whose parameters will be broader than those of nature tourism alone.

• Special thrust will be imparted to Village/Rural tourism, Home Stay and tourism in small settlements, where sizeable assets of our cultural and natural wealth exist.

• Due importance will be given to Domestic Tourism, particularly tourism connected to pilgrimage, culture, tradition & heritage, adventure, eco‐tourism, wellness Tourism, Peace/mind rejuvenation and it will be so designed that infrastructure created under it will serve as a backbone of international quality product in the time to come.

• Proper cleanliness and solid waste management and hence, to promote quality tourism. • To break the seasonality factor of tourism and promote all season tourism by having winter

tourism, monsoon tourism, Flower festivals, conferences/conventions/seminars, pilgrimage, adventure activities, Tourism related Institutions, Wellness‐peace‐health rejuvenation months stay etc.




6.3 Development of Tourism Infrastructure: The State Government in the past years have given top priority and importance to the development of sufficient and required infrastructure & Services for the development of tourism sector in the State. Some of the important steps taken are:

• Construction of good network of all weather roads. • Introduction of Helicopter services in1998 which is being further upgraded, Construction of

network of Helipads, more destinations, Mountain flights, Joy rides, rescue/ emergency services, approval for Twin engine larger seater Heli service.

• Sikkim Airport under development. • A network of Tourists Reception‐cum‐ Information Centers (TRICs) created and which are being

further strengthened. • For strengthening of service sector, manpower and other interlinked services, better capacity

building programme/ Livelihood Schools have been started along with the training at National and International level institutions.

• A network of ropeways has been planned and Gangtok ropeway has already been made operational. Namchi‐Samdruptse ropeway is under construction and the work on Tsomgo lake ropeway is under process and many other ropeways like Bhalleydhunga (South), Pelling (West) and many other places have been planned.

• To strengthen the way side facilities a good network of Development of Way side Amenities at a distance of 10 Km on all roads side has been planned and is under implementation.

• Single Window permit for Nathual, Tsomgo and others from 2001 under Notification 9/Home/2001, dated 5/2/2001. Inner Line Permit (ILP)/RAP have been made more easy‐stay period has been extended for a total period of 60 days with an extension of 30 days each.

• Cleanliness‐ Solid waste management at all the tourist’s spots /destinations/centres has been given top priority. Garbage bags in all tourists’ vehicle compulsory and also being put up in all the other vehicles as well.

6.4 Major Tourism Thrust Areas in Sikkim:




6.4.1 Eco -Tourism:

The main objective of this product is to promote Sikkim as preferred destination for visitors and provides opportunities for Community Based Ecotourism (CBET) particularly using latest approaches of Participatory Management for sustainable development of the resources and thereby generates employment, income and revenue for the State. “This concept of ‘community based eco-tourism’ will go a long way in providing better income generation options to the rural people. This will also mean less dependence upon the natural resources in as far as it amounts to removal of produce from these areas. There will be, moreover, greater incentive in conservation of local traditions, culture, heritage and environs, as these will be seen as aiding in local economy rather than an impediment to it.”

6.4.2 Village/Rural Tourism:

Village/Rural tourism has emerged as a very new concept in the tourism industry. This concept is fast growing in Sikkim as a responsible and sustainable tourism product with critical social objectives through people’s participation. The endorsement of rural tourism will ensure the dispersal of tourists from city congestion to the villages so that they can have a glimpse of rural Sikkim, familiarize with unique village culture and heritage so that they are mentally rejuvenated, culturally enriched and spiritually elevated. Some of the villages of Sikkim like Kewzing, Hee‐Bermoik, Yoksum, Lachen, Tumin, Pastanga, Tinchim, Lunchok, Maniram, Rong, Jaubari, Darap have already taken up lead in home stay facilities for the tourists. However, more professional approach needs to be initiated with optimum government incentives for aggressive promotion of rural tourism market.

6.4.3 Adventure Tourism / Adventure Sports:

Some of the important adventure activities being promoted in the State are: Trekking, Mountain climbing and Mountaineering, Rock climbing, River crossing, Paragliding, Bungee Jumping, White water rafting, Angling and many other types of traditional adventures . Trekking and Mountaineering are by far the most vibrant and visible adventure tourism activities in Sikkim and have much wider marketing prospects along with other adventure activities.

6.4.4 Wellness, Health, Yoga & Herbal Medical Tourism:

The Indian Himalayan Centre for Adventure & Eco‐tourism (IHCAE) at Chemchey, in South Sikkim has come up as an important centre to promote a combination of Adventure‐Eco‐We llness tourism under the




brand name of ‘Feel Good School’ beside a holistic institute on Adventure and Eco‐Tourism. This will render wellness facilities such as Meditation, Yoga, Spa, Herbal treatment, Jogging etc amidst the serene environment of Chemchey.

6.4.5 Forests & Wildlife Tourism:

This is an integral part of eco‐tourism. Sikkim has the highest network of National Park, Wildlife Sanctuaries and Biosphere Reserve and the unique Forest areas that perhaps not have been fully explored to its potential for tourism. Tourism Department proposes to work closely & actively with the Forest Department to further development and improvement the areas and other public utility services without any compromise with the conservation programme on the principle of sustainability in well regulated manner and a reasonable fee shall be charged for management and maintenance of these areas.

6.4.6 Bio-diversity Tourism:

Sikkim is one of the Hot‐ Spot of the Biodiversity world and hence, it has a great potential for researcher, educationists, students and nature lovers’ types of tourists both domestic and international. Since, this is our rich wealth; it will be well regulated with compulsory guide/interpreters with each group and well watched entry & outlets to check the bio piracy.

6.4.7 Flori-Tourism:

Sikkim is also promoting the concept of Flori‐tourism with a view to showcase its enormous variety of flowers, the nature has gifted to this hill station. The State has 4500 odd varieties of flowering plants of which orchids alone contribute over 450 species. In this mission, the International Flori‐show was organized in the year 2008 that attracted the interest of large numbers of tourists and the international players on floriculture. A permanent exhibition venue

has been created at Saramsa over 7 Acres land with world class facilities including conference and convention centre.

6.4.8 MICE Tourism: Meetings, Incentives, Convention and Exhibition:

For this product of tourism, Sikkim has very wide potential for many obvious reasons. The suitable venues along with all the facilities, transport, and communication will be developed. This will certainly promote the quality tourism and also bring the investment to Sikkim. Steps will be taken to promote corporate tourism and a directory for the same will be prepared. Tourism oriented expositions at land mark venues will also be the part of this activity.




6.4.9 Nature and Trekking Tourism:

The camping sites, Adventure, trekking, wildlife & Biodiversity Tourism, Wilderness Tourism etc will be developed with basic infrastructure facilities and public conveniences services which are also needed for the conservation and management of these resources. Hot‐springs offer a unique experience and unparallel products. All these areas will to be given emphasis for better management and no structure will be allowed to come up in the vicinity of the area which will have the negative impact on these resources.

6.4.10 Fairs and Festivals Tourism:

Sikkim is a land of fairs and festivals. In last one decade, its promotional aspect has been very encouraging. Now, there is need to make them more attractive, targeting the tourists on well defined theme and spread over all the seasons. Their time and dates will be fixed, organized in more professional manner and will be given wide publicity. Its calendar will be prepared with the concurrence of organizers and some of festivals would to be given review and rethought to make them more effective & purposeful. This is a major contribution in National Integration.

6.4.11 Arts Crafts and Souvenir Tourism:

Arts, crafts & souvenir are the integrated part of tourism industry and it will be developed & promoted on the top priority for generation of employment & income. It may be developed by Government undertakings and private sectors. Along with it, the standardized packing also needs to be taken up as its integral part. The items will be on all aspects of State such as culture, folk, pilgrimage, events, places, nature, landscape, Forests & wildlife, Mountains, monuments, history and many more.

6.4.12 Pilgrimage Tourism:

Buddhists circuit is coming up very well with Guru Padama Sambhava Statue, Buddha Park, Chen‐Regi Statue and a high network of world famous monasteries. New unique destinations like Chardham, many temples and other pilgrimage places, sacred lakes, sacred rocks & caves etc. offer a wide range of pilgrimages in Sikkim and will be developed.




6.4.13 Premium Tourists Destinations:

This is a new area of tourism product and the clean, fresh, peaceful, unpolluted & invigorating environment offer Premium Tourists destination for Sikkim, a preferred destination to relax & unwind. Under this, it is to propose that undiscovered spots/areas that are worth to visit for quiet holidays spent amidst the splendour of nature away from the crowds will be developed and promoted in its natural form. This will be allowed only for high end tourists with limited numbers and minimum stay of one week and a reasonably high services fee will be charged for this and nobody will be allowed to visit such locations free of cost. Some of the such areas proposed are: Memeinchhu Lake, Kupuk Lake, Maenum Hill, Bhalleydhunga, Singlila/Chiyabhanjang area, Baresy Sanctuary, Area beyond Dzongri, Gorudongmar Lake, Chholamoa Lake, Green Lake, Akant Vas & Agyat Van Vas etc.

6.4.14 Heli Tourism:

At present there about 11 nos. of helipads/heliports and many more to come up in near future. The twin engine heliservice has been approved by Government of India. The Heli service will extend the reach of higher end tourists to the delights of naturally and geographically rich hinterland. The promotion of the Heli service Tourism for remote areas, Heli Rural Darshan, Heli‐Adventure, Fairs & Festivals etc. etc. will be started.

6.5 Creation and Management of World Class Infrastructure: Infrastructure is first foundation of any industry, and in case of tourism, it is not only the infrastructure but also the quality & services of is the essence of tourism, if it has to grow as we are providing services, pleasure, entertainment, leisure, recreation, comforts and many more amenities from the tourism. Efforts will be made to seek the financial assistance from World Bank, Asian Development Bank and other international agencies for the projects ranging from entry point to mode of transport to the destinations.

6.5.1 Roads:

The well maintained road network is very vital for the tourism as in case of Sikkim most of the tourists destinations, sites, points entirely depends upon roads only. The present approach & vision of the State Government to double lane the existing NH 31 A, Alternate NH, a good network of inter‐districts State highways and the rural roads will directly support this objective and strategy.

6.5.2 Railways:

At present Sikkim is not connected by direct rail network directly. Recently in November 2009, the foundation stone for railway line up Rangpo was laid down and target is to complete by 2015 and in the next phase, it may be up to Gangtok and then to Nathula.

6.5.3 Airport:

The Sikkim (Pakyong) Airport shall be completed as per schedule and process for having flights from desired places shall be started and all formalities should be completed by the time of airport become operational.

6.5.4 Transport:

The State Government will also introduce Safe, economical and reliable transport within State as well as across the adjoining State. The luxury modern buses, small buses, Taxies and highly sophisticated means of transport will be encouraged in Government and private sector both. For many areas, a network of




ropeways has been planned, where the Government is already working in a major way to make it a common mode of transport and to save the forest and environment.

6.5.5 Accommodation:

Special efforts have already been initiated to develop and upgrade tourism accommodation in uniform manner at all tourist destinations keeping in view the requirement and income levels of different categories of tourists. Apart from the State Government, Hotels, private, PPP mode, Guest houses, Lodges and Village tourism/ Home stay has been planned and being implemented. It will be promoted and encouraged by facilitating and providing some incentives. Along with the old establishments, all new hotels and other accommodation/establishments will have the architecture which blends with the local environment.

6.5.6 Modern Wayside Amenities- Washrooms-Motels:

To make road journeys more pleasant, safe & secure, composite highway stopover or way side facilities will be developed and encouraged to be constructed on all highways. The State Government has already decided to create and establish modern wayside amenities/ washrooms/ motels at a distance of 10 km on the road side of each road. Such 63 locations have already been identified and approved. The land acquisition of about 2 acres at each location has already been started and works are being started. It will have all the modern amenities, restaurant, souvenir shop, information counter, public conveniences, park, lounge with all facilities, disabled facilities, retiring rooms, Police control room, vehicle repairing centre, local handicrafts/costumes/jewelry shop and local food shops etc. They will be developed by Government, private and PPP mode.

6.6 Responsible Tourism: Responsible Tourism is not a tourism product but it is an approach which can be used by travellers and holidaymakers, tour operators, accommodation and transport providers, visitor attraction managers, planning authorities, national, regional/provincial and local government and takes place in communities,, natural and cultural heritage sites and environments where people live and work. Responsible Tourism now has to focus on the economic participation of local people as direct owners in the business of tourism not just as beneficiaries of charity. Tourism has to contribute to socio‐economic development by supporting the conservation of natural and cultural heritage. Tourism has to provide opportunities for employment at the community level. Government and tourism enterprises can make a significant contribution by changing their procurement practices and supporting local entrepreneurs to develop the quality and quantity of their goods and services to meet market demands. Monitoring, verification and reporting on key local social, economic and environmental issues through locally agreed indicators is central to the management of tourism impacts ‐ measure, verify and report. Transparent and auditable reporting is essential to the integrity and credibility of our work and to establishing benchmarks and targets which enable individual consumers and businesses to make informed choices. In determining who are the responsible tourists and what are the responsible forms of tourism we need to rely more on the measurement of impacts rather than the self‐declared motivations of the travellers or the companies concerned.




7 Need for SEA for Sikkim Tourism Policy 2010 “Tourist destinations usually follow a lifecycle; the boom and bust course is most common. Tourism in a destination depends on the carrying capacity, resilience of the host/destination environment, intensity of tourist activity, and sociological attributes of the host society”. -----Butler Abstract: The increasing tourism activities in a tourist destination often result in overuse and degradation of the environment and resources of tourism which in turn lead to a decline in the growth of tourism, and loss of tourism value of the destination. As Sikkim is very environmentally sensitive region and covered mostly by the forest area, it becomes necessary to carry out SEA to find the appropriate land for the development of tourism activities. Also there exist some conflicts between Sikkim environment policy, Sikkim’s action plan for climate change and the Sikkim tourism policy 2010 which needs to be assessed. Keywords: Strategic Environment Assessment, Tourism Policy, Environment, Clearance, legislations, Carrying capacity.

7.1 Introduction: Strategic Environment Assessment for Tourism Policy is not a legal mandate as per EIA notification of MoEF, but still SEA is needed as tourism and environment are intricately related. The environment of a tourist destination, its socio-cultural attributes, resources and heritage value constitute the basic background elements for the evolution, growth and development of tourism in that area. The increasing tourism activities in a tourist destination often result in overuse and degradation of the environment and resources of tourism which in turn lead to a decline in the growth of tourism, and loss of tourism value of the destination.

The

Figure 7-1: Schematics of tourism development (source: Butler and Murphy)




Tourist Area Life Cycle (TALC) model developed by Butler is an amalgam of the product lifecycle model and the model of population growth. This correlates the different stages and the course of evolution of destination areas or tourism development with the stages of product lifecycle and population cycle by linking tourism experience, which is consumed, with product and carrying capacity. Murphy explains the rise and fall of tourist destinations in terms of tourist–host interactions/transactions and social carrying capacity. Tourism development in any area invariably leads to economic growth of that area, which is manifested in terms of increase in income and employment opportunities, infrastructural growth, improvement in the standard of living, etc. Its multiplier spin-off effects for the host communities are enormous, and have a wider distribution. But tourism development is often accompanied with a host of negative impacts on ecology, environment, and socio-economy of the host communities/destinations. The studies on tourism reveal its negative impacts in terms of loss of biodiversity, deforestation, congested settlements, landscape alterations, slums, pollution of air, water and soil, siltation of water bodies, loss of wetlands, loss of land titles, social alienation, change in lifestyle and traditions, etc. Sometimes, the local communities do not get even the slightest of benefits of tourism. Also, the growth of tourism beyond a stage often sparks conflicts between the hosts and the tourists. Increase in tourist influx and subsequent development of tourist-related infrastructure also put pressure on the carrying capacity of the destination areas. As a result, the tourist interest in the area start waning, ultimately leading to a change in tourist quality, and decreasing number of tourists to the area, which gradually loses its appeal and tourism.

7.2 Environmental sensitiveness of Sikkim: Sikkim is a ecologically fragile area with tremendous Biodiversity and has been identified as one of the most important “Hot Spot” for biodiversity. Species wise, it has about 4500 Flowering plants, 550 Orchids, 36 Rhododendrons, 16 Conifers, 28 Bamboos, 362 Ferns and its allies, 9 Tree Ferns, 30 Primulas, 11 Oaks, over 424 medicinal plants, 144+ Mammals, 550 Birds, 48 Fishes and over 600 nos. of Butterflies and also 28 nos. of Mountains/Peaks, more than 38 Glaciers, 227 High altitude lakes & wetlands and over 104 rivers and streams. Also there are very sensitive ethnic communities are present in this area. So, many of the tourism activities may have positive or negative impacts on the biodiversity and local ethnic communities of Sikkim which make it necessary to conduct SEA for Sikkim tourism policy.

7.3 Environmental Clearance & Legislations: Development of tourism related projects and activities requires large amount of land and in case of Sikkim, because of its topography and huge forest cover which needs environmental clearance, it becomes necessary to conduct proper SEA to acquire the appropriate land without having major implications on the environment. Also there is a need for appropriate legislations and rules to be formulated and enforced to implement the tourism policy for which SEA is needed. Policy level impact assessment was conducted for the hydro electric power projects to get funds under ‘South Asian Tourism Development project ‘ of ADB and even Tourism policy 2010 talks about accessing ADB and other financial institutions for getting funds for the implementation of tourism projects which requires SEA.




7.4 Sikkim Tourism Policy 2010 and Need for SEA:

Sikkim Tourism Policy 2010 Need for SEA To Promote Tourism as a major engine of economic growth and to help in elimination of poverty, ending unemployment and creating new skills, etc.,

Most of the times there is a inverse relationship between Economic growth and Environmental degradation. Is there any regional disparity (Projects Syndrome)?

Addition of 1 lakh tourists/day is predicted.

There can be serious impact on the carrying capacity and also stress on Infrastructure.

Infrastructure and services development: Road network, small hydro power plants Ropeways, communication services, heli services, Airport, hotels, Home stays, Institutes, Way side amenities, solid waste management, etc.

Very challenging in hilly areas for example construction of roads without analyzing geology and hydrology may result in acceleration of landslides.

To involve local communities in the development and management of tourists destinations and tourism related infrastructure.

Also there is involvement of West Bengal population to manage tourism related infrastructure-Due to this there can be conflicts raised between local communities and Immigrants.

Promotion of Wildlife tourism, biodiversity tourism, Adventure tourism, Agyat van vas tourism in National park, Wildlife sanctuaries, Biosphere reserve and unique forest areas of Sikkim

Deep rooted relationship of tourism and natural resources, environment, forests, wildlife and ecology.

Important river sides of Teesta, Rangeet and others to be developed for water sports , camping sites, hydro tourism, etc.

May have impact on river ecology.

To promote all season Tourism.

May not be feasible in all the tourists destinations due to severe climatic conditions and also due to problems of Landslides, etc.

Mass pilgrimage tourism to be promoted at the destinations like chardham, Rumtek Monestery, Guru padama Sambhava, sacred lakes, etc.

Large concentration of tourists at particular locations may have serious impact on the local infrastructure.

To promote Village tourism in many villages.

May have impact on lifestyle and culture of the local communities

A single window booking and permit for all forest & wildlife related matters will be established in close coordination with Forest Department and also Inner Line Permit (ILP)/RAP will be made more easy‐stay period has been extended for a total period of 60 days.

May accelerate the flow of tourists in ecologically fragile areas.

Very high service fees / Environment tax will be collected at premium tourist destinations at some places.

If properly executed, the revenue generated can be used for the protection of the conservation areas.




7.5 Conflicts between Sikkim Environmental Policy and Sikkim Tourism Policy:

Sikkim Environment Policy (1999,2010)

Sikkim Tourism Policy (2010)

The area under National Parks, Sanctuaries and biosphere reserve should be fully protected and not diverted for any other purpose.

Many tourists’ destinations present and also proposed in these areas.

Preventing the diversion of good agriculture lands for other purposes.

Conversion of Agricultural land to tourism related amenities in village tourism sites and to recreation activities in case of Ranka project has been observed.

Developmental schemes and projects, which are detrimental to the environment and forest growing on steep slopes, land in catchment areas of rivers, lakes and reservoirs, and ecologically and geologically fragile areas should be severely restricted.

These parameters needs to be assessed to find the appropriate locations for the proposed projects (Location Criteria)

Construction of buildings and houses not are allowed in landslide prone areas to avoid loss of life and property.

Location criteria for the tourism projects to be assessed considering this parameter.

Treatment of the area damaged due to execution of project / extension of old one, should be the responsibility of the project authority.

Tourism policy does not consider this.

To generate revenue without damaging the ecology and environment, ecotourism will be promoted in protected areas having natural scenic beauty and places of religious importance.

Encouraging to increase the tourist inflow in such areas,so there is a need to take proper measures to avoid the damage to environment.




Sikkim Action Plan on Climate Change and Sikkim Tourism Policy:

Action plan on Climate change(2010)

Sikkim Tourism Policy (2010)

Looking at ways to incorporating the climate change to various policy guidelines so that the strategy could pay off in the long run.

No mention in Tourism Policy to Incorporate climate change Adaption and mitigation measures.

The programme on green building, energy audit, rating of hotels based on ecological considerations will also be emphasized.

No emphasis given in the Tourism Policy in this regard.

The construction of Solar Passive Houses and Solar Passive Trekking huts in alpine areas also has a vast scope in Sikkim.....to take full advantage of ‘National Solar Mission’.

No emphasis given in the Tourism Policy in this regard.

More Emphasis on Indigenous practices for conservation of resources, construction technology and to conserve local culture.

In case of Village tourism , only outer façade to retain the local traditional Architecture and Indigenous practices and construction practices are neglected.

To avoid the growth of unregulated mass tourism and unmanaged pilgrimage tourism which could destroy the very spiritual character and pristine ecology

Tourism policy promotes mass tourism in east and west districts

7.6 Tourist Influx and Investments in Tourism Sector: • The Government of Sikkim has recognized the importance of tourism in the Socio-Economic

development of the state and has accorded a high priority for its development. Today, the number of tourists visiting Sikkim has reached 3.5 lakh per annum and Tourism Master plan suggest that approximately 7.6–10.4 lakh tourists would visit Sikkim during the year 2017, which would also have implications on the infrastructure, environment, natural resources, culture and eco-tourism of the state.

• Ministry of tourism had laid an The outlay of Rs. 105 crores for NER & Sikkim for the schemes relating to tourism and related Infrastructure Development.

• Tourism promotion schemes like village tourism development laid out total cost of Rs.424.24 lakh during 2005-06.

• A revenue and capital expenditure in Tourism infrastructure development of 782.5 Lakh envisioned as per 10th V year plan.(Annual Report 2006, Dept. of Sikkim Tourism)

• A protected area regulation halts clearances delaying the project completion and necessitates Environment management system.

• The fund received from the central govt. did not match the projected target; almost 50% of the projects were postponed.

• As against the 95 schemes sanctioned only 9 (nine) schemes could be completed. Due to shortage of funds. Hence many projects were not able to be completed due to shortage of funds.




8 Field Study “Four fundamental pillars that needed to be followed for more responsible form of tourism are: Minimum environmental impact; Minimum impact on-and maximum respect for- host cultures; Maximum economic benefits to the host country’s grass-root; and Maximum ‘recreational’ satisfaction to participating tourists” - Hetzer

This chapter mainly explains about the Secondary & Primary Surveys targeted to different category of people with the different criteria’s at Sikkim. Brief discussion of different projects with reference to the projects listed in the Sikkim Tourism Policy 2010

Keywords: FGD’s: Focus group discussions, Primary Surveys

8.1 Primary Surveys According to our desk studies and review of case studies we have decided to surveys for different groups. We prepared different criterias, survey formats for different focused groups. Prepared survey format & divided the 350 surveys for different group of people in Sikkim like the Tourists, Vehicle Drivers, and Households. Restaurants-hotels, Village surveys and also conducted the Focus group discussions with the who arrange village tourism for the tourist and to driver association, Hotel association and to the different NGO’s. Refer Survey Formats in the Annexure below

8.2 Focus group Discussions: Carried our field trip with the focus group discussion with different category people like drivers association, Hotel association and with the villagers were village tourism has encouraged and started recently.

8.2.1 FGD’s with the Drivers Association:

As drivers and the driver association play the key role in the tourism. We have conducted the focus group discussions with driver association. The discussion went on like the employment opportunities and the jobs in the off season as they will not be many tourists in off season, about the charges for the tourists visiting different places, Tourist packages, Variation of packages in off season and peak season, Variation of prices in the off season and peak season

8.2.2 FGD’s with the Hotels Association:

The discussion with the hotel association. The Hotel association group is running at present has been changed and new committee is been operating the association. Many changes are going to happen. At present they are involved in working with the different categories of Hotels like Low fare, Medium fare, Deluxe, Suite, 4 Star and 5 star. The major task of the Hotel association is to check with the issues of Waste Management (Reduce, Reuse and Recycle), Water Supply (Rain Water Harvesting Techniques) to the hotels and maintainenace of the hotels. Sustainable usage of solid waste that is generated in the hotel. Legal issues like lease and rent aspects of the hotel.

Tourists 90 Households 60 Travel agencies 60 Restaurants-hotels 60

Vehicular drivers 60 Village surveys 20 Total 350




8.2.3 Hotels in Sikkim

Town/Area Number of Hotels Number of Beds

East Sikkim Gangtok;Aritar; Rangpo 158 5499 West Sikkim Pelling/Pemayangtse,Yuksom 45 1200 Geyzing 12 180 North Sikkim- Lachung/North Sikkim 25 250 Chungthang/Singhik 4 38 South Sikkim Rabongla 5 90 Namchi 7 70 Jorethang 11 242

Tariff Range Tariff range % of hotels in the range Rs.150-200 40% Rs.250-400 30% Rs.500-800 20% Rs.900-3000 10% Average stay of tourists District Domestic

Tourists Foreign Tourists

East 4-5 days 3 days West 1-5 days 1-5 days South 1 day 1 day North 2-3 day 2-3days

8.2.4 FGD’s with the Villagers (Village Tourism):

Sikkim is encouraging the village tourism in all the district, as people now a days are uninterested to stay in the hotel in cities as the facilities are not as per standard, lots of noise as they are located within the city, Quality of the facilities as well as the food are not satisfied by the tourists. So, the space for the village tourism has emerged. Village Tourism explicit about the housing typology, Dressing, Culture, tradition and food style, Traditional beer of the people stay in Sikkim. Even these vary from one community to another community (Lepcha, Bhutia, Neplis).




8.3 Analysis




8.4 Sikkim Tourist Circuits

Figure 8-1- Tourist circuit map




8.5 Case Studies We had done case studies of different projects based on different criteria’s mainly highlighting the projects that are mentioned in the Sikkim Tourism Policy 2010 .

S.N Projects Projects

1 Ropeway Project, Namchi Kabi Tourist Village 2 Saramsa Garden Prison Tourism & View point 3 Singtam Water Garden Banjakri Water Falls 4 Kanchanzonga Water Falls Khechuperi Wishing Lake 5 Maniram Tourist Village Chardham Namchi, South 6 Pelling Bon Farm house




8.5.1 Case study: Ropeway Project, Namchi

Introduction Ropeway system between PWD Bungalow and Rock Garden

to Samduptse.

Project Details Capacity: 250 persons per hour Length of the Ropeway: 2095 meters Designed By: M/S RITES Ltd.(a Government of India Enterprise) Ropeway and Industrial Engineering Division, RITES Bhawan Plot No. 1 sector-29,Gurgaon-122001 Haryana, India.

Other Details The members of the SEAC (State Level Expert Appraisal Committee) have examined the possible environmental hazard in terms of soil erosion, landslide, pollution and overall safety measures taken by the project proponent.

• To develop proper and long term mechanism to dispose off the solid waste generated.

• To ensure that the structure involved in the project is safe and technically sound.

• To ensure that tourists do not have thorough-fare in the forest areas.

• To ensure that the construction materials like stones, sand etc be extracted only from approved quarries.

• To ensure that no quarry comes up in the proposed project area.

• To ensure that concerned Tourism Department should generate some mechanism to dispose off the garbage out of the funds generated.




8.5.2 Case Study: Kabi Village, North Sikkim

Introduction Home stays offered at Kabi are very simple but those that meet

the basic amenities required and very hygienically maintained. The owners are given proper training on providing hygienic food and ensuring a comfortable stay for the visitors. One can take a glimpse into the village lifestyle while staying closely with different families. At present there are 5 houses offering home stay facilities for tourists.

Project Details Supported Organizations: Endeavors Organization(NGO) & World Wide Fund

Other Details Introduction: 19kms away from Gangtok lies a small idylic village Kabi. Replete with its natural beauty of diverse flora, beautiful streams & yet unexplored trek routes. History: Kabi was Kayu sha bhi lungchok (Stone erected by our blood). Village has a great significance as the place where the ‘Blood Brotherhood Treaty’. Festival: Dupchay and Book kor . Kabi Home stays Home stays are very simple but those meet the standards of basic amenities required. Training for providing hygienic food and ensuring a comfortable stay.Traditional Bath.Millet Beer, Traditional Food of sikkim. Kabi People: Bhutia, Lepcha, Sherpa and Tamang Communities Around Kabi :Nampheyang cave, Rongpoh Cave-Belived as a wish fulfilling powers, many puja rituals are held .Kabi Scared Grove- Blood Brotherhood treaty signed in the 13th centuary, Puja Sekhiuk is celebrated annually. Medicinal Plants are found in abundance in the grove. Kabi Monastry- Was established in the year 1973. Asla Fishing at Bakcha Chu. Takchu thungsha – the tigers spring




8.5.3 Case Study :Sramsa Garden, Ranipool

Introduction The Saramsa Garden, a well-known picnic spot spread on an area measuring 6 acres and located 3 kms away from Ranipool in East Sikkim is presently undergoing a complete makeover from its earlier conventional ambience to like any other modish amusement parks found in metropolitan cities.

Project Details Saramsa Garden (a.k.a Ipecac Garden) was established in year 1922 by Forest Department. Bhim Bahadur Pradhan who was the Forest Manager during 1922-1954 nurtured this garden and his pet project with intense involvement in introduction of plants.

Other Details Around 500 labourers have been working diligently from 8 am to 7 pm for the past one-month on the infrastructural development as initiated by the State Tourism Department ranging from construction of a reception center for the visitors, boundary walls measuring 8 feet in height, convention hall, exhibition hall, cafeterias, toilets, walkways, stalls for display of flowers, beautification of the compound, and laying of electrical cables to compound illumination. Besides, the construction of water fountain in double dome format, balancing rock water fountain and musical water fountain is in progress under the supervision of the Superintending Engineer, Sikkim Tourism Prakash Chettri. According to him, the balancing rock water fountain built on an area measuring 20 feet in diameter, which would resemble as if a jade of water, is supporting a rock would be the first of its kind in the state.




8.5.4 Case Study: Prision Tourism

Introduction Rongyek Jail in East Sikkim is emerging as a true home for its inmates to reform and re-invent themselves. And to watch these inmates’ world of hope, Sikkim has started a first-of-its-kind Prison Tourism.

Project Details Under a first-of-its-kindscheme, beginning this month (October), Indian tourists have begun visiting Rongyep Jail on Sundays from 11 am to 2 pm. Tourists have to pay a nominal registration fee of Rs 10 at the Tourism Information Centre (TIC) of Sikkimn.

Other Details Around 500 labourers have been working diligently from 8 am to 7 pm for the past one-month on the infrastructural development as initiated by the State Tourism Department ranging from construction of a reception center for the visitors, boundary walls measuring 8 feet in height, convention hall, exhibition hall, cafeterias, toilets, walkways, stalls for display of flowers, beautification of the compound, and laying of electrical cables to compound illumination. Besides, the construction of water fountain in double dome format, balancing rock water fountain and musical water fountain is in progress under the supervision of the Superintending Engineer, Sikkim Tourism Prakash Chettri. According to him, the balancing rock water fountain built on an area measuring 20 feet in diameter, which would resemble as if a jade of water, is supporting a rock would be the first of its kind in the state.

A jail can be much more than a place to confine criminals. The State of Sikkim and a humble jailer show the way.




8.5.5 Case Study: Singtam Water Garden

Introduction State : Sikkim, in the north eastern state of India. Best time to Travel : March to late May, October to Mid-December. Location : Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim is 30 km from Singtam in Sikkim, India.

Importance of Singtam Water Garden

Singtam is the place where the major Landslide occurred in the month of September where the whole Fruit Industry has been damaged, there was a massive destruction of the property, but no lives were affected.

Other Details

Singtam town is situated in the East Sikkim District of Sikkim, about 30 km from the state capital, Gangtok. This town was developed due to its location as a junction and supply point for the South District of Sikkim. The Government Fruit Preservation Factory is located at this place. The major attraction located at Singtam is the Bermoik Monastery, nearby. Dzongu Valley is easily accessible from Singtam. Singtam in Sikkim is abundant with the yellow heap of oranges, beside the road, during the season.

Other Places to visit Bermoik Monastery: This monastery was constructed in 1952 and follows the Nyingma sect of Buddhism. It is situated in South Sikkim above Singtam. Dzongu Valley:Dzongu Valley is about 70 km north of Gangtok and can be accessed through Singtam road. This valley is formed by the fast flowing glacier fed rivers emerged from the Great Himalayas. It comprises of forest and is blesseed with the important rivers, Teesta and Tolung. Dzongu Valley rests in the shadow of the beautiful and unique, Mount Kanchenjunga and Mount Siniolchu.




8.5.6 Case Study: Banjakri Water Falls

Introduction Sikkim, a fascinating & captivating Himalayan state and abode to the mighty Khangchendzonga is truely a mystical place. The magic of the mountain extends to its inhabitants too. The ethnic communities of this place still have faith in magical realism, no matter how far science has progressed! To play the roles of this kind of faith in the people, Sikkim has Jhakri(s) or Shamans .

Place Details

'Bhanjhakri Falls' is an energy park as well as a shamatic theme park. This park lies amidst lush green valley which is spread over two acres of land. At the outskirts of Gangtok, the Capital of Sikkim. It is surrounded by trees and a gushing mountain river. It is at almost 7000 feet above mean-sea level, receiving rainfall almost for 8 months during the year!

Other Details The place are with different sculpture representing the communities of Sikkim. Sikkimese styled foot bridge. Solar panels are laid alongside the edge of the wall. Bhanjhakri Falls and Sikkimese styled foot bridge in the fore-front. Ethnic sculpture and fugurines of the Jhakri culture. Jhakris/Shamans in healing Ritual of sick person. The Shaman/Jhakri can control and/or cooperate with the spirits for the community's benefit. The spirit can be either good or bad. Ethnic sculpture and fugurines of the Jhakri culture. Jhakris in healing Ritual of sick person. Shamans/Jhakris get into a trace by singing, dancing, taking entheogens, meditating and drumming.




8.5.7 Case Study – Kanchenzonga Tourist Villa

Introduction Describing Sikkim as “a hidden paradise”, President Pratibha Patil today said the state has immense tourism potential for revenue generation and employment opportunities for locals. Khangchendzonga tourist villa-cum-socio cultural amusement park at Ranka, about 14 kms from Gangtok

Place Details Ranka Amusement park project of Rs 55 Crore 77 Lakhs , the Khangchendzonga Tourist Villa cum socio-cultural amusement park at Ranka, East Sikkim. Total Cost 65 crores with the equipment purchased from Gujarat Area: 17 acres Expected returns of 1500 per day in tourist season Cottages cost 3500/day. No use of traditional material or methods of construction Land acquisition displaced 8 farming families and a school Landuse changed from agriculture to recreational zone.




8.5.8 Case study: Pelling

Introduction Pelling is a place with hotels. Yopu find almost all the city. Situated at a

height of 2150 m .At a distance of 10 km from the district headquarters of Geyzing and 115 km from Gangtok

Place Details

Regular jeeps connect Pelling to the towns of Jorethang, Kalimpong and Namchi. Due to influx of tourists, the region is undergoing a metamorphosis, with the roads being repaired and hotels being set up. Most of the people of Pelling are Buddhists and speak the Sikkimese language. The land around Pelling is still a virgin territory and is bathed with alpine vegetation, with numerous waterfalls lining the hillside. Pelling is famous for the view of the Kanchenjunga. During the tourist off-season Pelling appears to be a ghost town with handful of hoteliers and guest house caretakers staying back.

Place to Visit (Near by) Pemayangtse Monastery: Pemayangtse literally means 'Perfect Sublime Lotus'. This is one of the oldest and most important monasteries of Sikkim. Founded in 1705, this monastery belongs to the Nyingma-pa sect. The three-storied building of the monastery houses a good collection of wall paintings and sculptures. Sangachoeling Monastery is located on the top of the mountain behind the town of Pelling. The distance to the monastery from Pelling is about 3 km. The road is not motorable and one needs to take a 45 minutes’ walk through a quite path to reach the monastery Khechepalri Lake: Khechepalri Lake is considered one of the sacred lakes of Sikkim. The lake remains hidden in the rich forest cover. It is believed that birds do not permit even a single leaf to float on the lake surface. Rabdantsey Ruins: This was the second capital of the erstwhile kingdom of Sikkim after Yuksam and till the year 1814 A.D., the king of Sikkim had ruled the state from this place. Today, the Rabdentse ruins lie hidden from the main road at a walking distance from Pelling and the Pemayangtse monastery.




8.5.9 Case Study: Kanchanzonga Water falls & Khechuperi Wishing Lake

Introduction The magic of the land is the elevation which ranges from 224 mts

to over 8590 mts above sea level that gives the place an infinite range of flora and fauna. The lush green fields, the clear and frothing rivers, dense forests and its picturesque mountain peaks make Sikkim one of the beautiful travel destinations of the country. Kanchenjunga Waterfalls is one of the largest waterfalls. The Khecheopalri Lakeis a sacred lake of Buddhist and Hindu religion

Project Details Kanchenjunga Waterfalls is one of the largest waterfalls in Sikkim. It is about 29 km from Pelling on the way to Yuksom. It falls from a height of 300 ft and is placed between a magnificent carve of two hills. The place is rich in natural beauty and lush vegetation. Kaechuperi Lake: According to Hindu mythology it is said that it is the footprint of Goddess Tara. This beautiful lake is located at a distance of 24 km from Pemayangtse in Sikkim. This lake is also called the 'wishing lake' whose shores are surrounded by dense forests and towering bamboo groves. Despite dense forest surrounding there is not a single leaf floating on the lake surface because birds and ducks pluck the leaves from the lake as soon as they fall on the water's surface which provides giving a clear and untouched appearance. Tourists prefer Khecheopalri Lake tour so they can experience the mystic beauty and celestial charisma of this sacred lake.

Importance of lakeOwing to its holiness only prayers are allowed around the lake. Any type of water activities and bathing is strictly prohibited so holiness and purity of this lake can be maintained and preserved. During February and March a grand festival is celebrated which provides deep insight to the age-old culture of this place. Tourists from across the globe come here so they can experience the cultural as well as natural beauty of this place. On the bank of this lake there are Lepcha houses which heighten the scenic ambiances of this beautiful lake. This place is also popular among trekkers. The sacred lake is surrounded by prayer flags and forested hills which heightens the beauty and of this place.




8.5.10 Case Study :Char dham, South Sikkim

Introduction Chardam is the development with massive construction using different materials. The project site has been located in the forest area and a small vllage has been occupied.

Project Details Project conceived by- Dr. Pawan chamling (Honorable Chief Minister of Sikkim) Executed by- HSCL, Kolkata Principal owner- RM& DD Dept (govt of Sikkim) Consultant- H.U.D.C.O, Delhi Project cost- 99.56 crores Expenditure till date- 67.58 crores Acquired land area on solophok hill- 29.95 ha

Other Details

Target tourist population is domestic and foreign tourist. It is believed that this project will bring great flow of tourist to the place. Believed that it will increase the economy of the place. 7 Acres of villages and more than 20 hectares of forest land were cleared. Materials were brought from AP and Rajasthan. No local materials were used for construction. Due to paving of the entire surface no space for percolation is left. Piligrim centre is being constructed on the top of the Solophok Hill in South Sikkim. 9.95 Ha of village land and more than 20 hectares of forest land were cleared for the construction.Total expenditure:99.56 crores. Stones are been used for the construction(AP & Rajastan) Description of the project:

• A Statue of 18 feet height of Lord Kirateshwar has been proposed.

• Four Dams namely Badrinath,Jaganath and dwaraka dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Rameshwar Dedicated to Lord Shiva.

• Proposed to construct Yatri Nivas(250),Guest House(200), security Block, Shops,

• Sewerage Treatment plants, foot Paths, Statues of religious dities,Water reserviours, Pavilion covering, Fire fighting etc.

It is built to cater the VIP’S and VVIP’S and the state dignitaries. The Rishi Kutis would be of differing plinth areas ranging from 2500sft to 650 sq.ft. It will have battery driven cars Fruit bearing trees will be planted to invite the birds at the place Artificial waterfalls and portable water would be filtered by UV osmosis treatment method instead of conventional chlorine dosing. Subjects related to natural therapy, spa, and other ayurvedic and herbal streams can avail of employment therein.




8.5.11 Case Study : Nature Own Bon Farm House,Kewzing, South Sikkim

Introduction Bon farmhouse welcomes you to Sikkim for “back to nature” experience of staying in a typical village farm ambience of Sikkim in Kewzing Village with a Bonpo Family. The Farmhouse stay is different from a typical hotel or a resort mainly because you can enjoy the comforts of a homely environment the best part being all meals prepared from freshly grown organic vegetables from the nearby fields.

Project details

Developed by the individual person without any support. Tourist Information centre are giving him a support by promoting the Farm house.

Other Details The farmhouse has rich livestock inventory for providing fresh milk and eggs for a healthy and nutritious meal. The Farmhouse has an area of four acres of cultivated fields, tea gardens and six acres of lush green cardamom forest surrounding the Farmhouse making your stay relaxing and peaceful amidst the natural village atmosphere promising a nice breakaway from the din and bustle of daily life. The Farmhouse is actively involved in organic farming of the following crops, vegetables and fruits. Depending on one’s interest visitors can plan their visit to the farm to coincide with the cropping season. The farm house rears Jersey cows for milk, butter, cottage cheese, York curd and butter milk of which the Butter and cheese of the Farmhouse are in great demand in local market because of its good and pure quality. Goats, Chicken for eggs and pigs according to traditional as well as practical practise for Organic Waste consumption.

Iternary: They provide good and interesting separate Itenary for the toursit. The take tourist to the Monastery as very important holy place, Bird Watching, Village walk cum Nature walk, one days treks and one night camp, learning Sikkimese cuisine, Sightseeing tours, Excursion to trout valley, Dotho (Sikkimese hot stone Herbal bath)




8.5.12 Case Study: Maniram Tourist Village

Introduction Maniram is a small beautiful village inhabited by the Tamang community. Nestled in the hills at 4600mtr above sea level, the village experiences a pleasant climate all year round

Place Details Warm days and cool nights prevail during the months of April to Octobermaking it an ideal time for visiting this alluring village. Maniram is apicturesque place truly blessed by the Almighty. It occupies a place ofpride as one of the prominent cultural heritages of Sikkim. Maniram Homestay provides a unique experience to its visitors exposingthem to the rich local culture, traditional lifestyle, art and sumptuoushomecooked traditional meals. A very warm welcome in an elaboratetraditional fashion is extended by the village community to each one oftheir visitors and guests and they are invited to stay their homes as one ofthe village families. The accommodation is simple yet comfortable with good bedding andclean toilet facilities. Delicious local organic delicacies are served and theguests are offered the unique experience of eating their meals with thehost family as one of the family members. Fun and entertainment is a way of life of the Tamang community and theyare well recognised as entertainers and fun-lovers among all thecommunities of Sikkim. Each night the guests are entertained byshowcasing a variety of cultural programmes, dances and folk songs. Theguests cannot help resist joining in with the locals and singing anddancing along with them.




9 Scoping of Components "Take a course in good water and air; and in the eternal youth of Nature you may renew your own. Go quietly, alone; no harm will befall you."

— John Muir

Scoping is used in the selection of pertinent environmental factors for inclusion in the Description of Environmental factors for inclusion in the description of the environmental setting. This involves a field work of identifying potential impacts of Tourism projects on identified criteria.

Keywords: Checklist method, Project, Landform, Water, Solid waste, Noise, Plant life, Land use, Energy, Infrastructure, Heritage, Scoring.

9.1 Descriptive Checklist 9.1.1 Projects identified

Based on the Tourist Foot poll developed from the Tourist surveys, Tourist projects having potential attraction in all seasons were identified. A descriptive checklist has been developed based on site visits, Focused group discussions and personal interviews described in previous chapter. Sixteen detailed site studies have been conducted to determine the impact of the project on landform, Environment, Socio Economy of communities and Heritage value. The study helped in identifying the project which affects the most and the Environmental component affected the most.

SL.No. Projects District SL.No. Projects District

1 Ropeway Project, Namchi South 10 Kabi Tourist Village North

2 Saramsa Garden East 11 Prison Tourism & View point East

3 Singtam Water Garden East 12 Banjakri Water Falls East

4 Namchi Rock Garden South 13 Baghthang Water Falls East

5 Amusement Park, Ranka East 14 7 sisters Water Falls North

6 Proposed Trekking trails East 15 Kanchanzonga Water Falls West

7 Khechuperi Wishing Lake West 16 Chardham Namchi, South South

8 Himalayan Zoological Park East 17 Ganesh Tok East

9 Maniram Tourist Village South 18 Ranka East

Table 2- Projects identified for Scoping

9.1.2 Project Scoring:

The impact of project in preconstruction, Construction and Operation phases was analyzed. A total score was developed based on the component which is affected the most. Also the phase which affects the most was obtained. Accordingly components with higher scores were taken and as per the data availability these components were described in detail as the Baseline Scenario.




Issues(Will the project activity result in) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Total

Land Form

Unstable slopes or embankments 10 0 0 10 10 10 0 10 10 0 10 0 0 0 10 10 10 80 Extensive displacement of soil 10 0 5 5 10 0 0 0 10 0 10 5 0 0 0 10 10 55 Change in riverbanks, stream channels, ground contours 0 10 10 0 10 0 5 0 10 0 5 10 0 0 0 10 0 60 Increased erosion of soil 0 5 0 5 0 5 10 0 10 0 5 10 0 0 0 10 10 50

Air Air pollutant emmisions which exeeds standards 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 0 alteration of air movements 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 0

Water

changes in water movements 0 0 10 0 10 10 10 0 0 10 10 5 5 5 10 0 75 Discharges of pollutants in surface water 0 5 5 0 0 5 5 0 5 0 5 10 5 5 5 0 50 Alteration in ground water quality/quantity 0 0 0 0 0 5 5 0 5 0 0 0 0 5 0 15 Contamination of public water supply 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 0 5 0 5 5 5 0 0 25 construction in wetland or inland flood plain 5 0 0 0 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10

Noise Increase existing noise levels 0 5 5 0 10 10 0 0 5 10 10 0 0 0 10 10 55 Expose people/ Animals to excessive noise 0 0 0 0 10 0 0 0 5 10 10 0 0 0 5 10 35

Plant Life

Change the diversity or productivity of species 5 10 5 5 5 10 0 0 0 0 5 0 0 0 10 0 45 Affect the habitat of any species 5 5 5 5 5 10 0 0 0 0 5 0 0 0 10 0 40 Introduce new species of plants 0 10 5 5 10 5 0 0 5 0 5 0 0 0 5 0 45 Create damage to any agricltural crop 0 0 0 0 10 0 0 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 15

Animal Life

Reduce the habitat or numbers of any rare or endangered species 5 0 0 0 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 5 10 Introduce new species 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 Create a barrier to the migration or movement of any animal or fish 0 0 0 0 0 10 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 Cause emigration resulting in human-wildlife interaction problems 0 0 0 0 0 10 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10

Land Use alter the present or proposed land use 10 5 5 5 10 10 10 0 10 10 0 0 0 0 10 0 75 impact on forest land/gouchar land 10 0 0 5 0 10 10 0 0 10 0 0 0 0 10 0 45




Infrastructure

Solid waste generation and management facility 0 10 5 5 10 10 10 5 10 5 10 5 10 5 5 10 5 120Movement of additional vehicles 5 10 10 10 10 0 10 5 10 5 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 125 Effects on existing parking facilities 5 10 10 10 10 0 10 5 10 5 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 125 Increased traffic hazards 5 10 10 10 10 0 10 10 10 5 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 130 Construction of new roads 0 0 0 0 5 0 0 0 5 5 5 0 0 0 0 5 0 20 Stress on water supply: 0 0 0 0 10 0 0 5 10 5 5 0 0 0 0 10 0 35 Stress on Sanitation: 0 0 0 0 10 10 0 5 10 5 5 0 0 0 0 10 0 45

Socio Economic& Cultural

population:Displacement / Migration 5 5 5 5 10 0 10 0 10 0 0 5 0 0 0 10 10 55 Expose people to potential health hazards 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 have any adverse affect on local or regional economic conditions 10 0 0 0 10 5 0 0 10 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 35 Potentially conroversial community reaction 0 0 0 0 10 0 0 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 15 In conflict with locally adopted plans and goals 0 0 0 0 10 0 0 0 5 0 5 5 0 0 0 0 5 25

Heritage Alter Archaeological, cultural or historical sites. 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 10

Least Impact – 0 Score Medium Impact – 5 Score Medium Impact – 10 Score Table 3- Scoping of Parameters

9.1.3 Scoping Conclusion:

The following projects were selected for a detailed project description. The parameters to be studied under each of these components were listed. Components Identified Parameters Selected Socio Economic Employment Pattern, Poverty, Literacy, Sex Ratio, Population Density Infrastructure Roads and Connectivity , Water supply , Sanitation Landform Slope, Elevation, Soil Erosion Special Criteria Regions Roads and Connectivity , Water supply, Sanitation




10 Base line Scenario "In the long term, economic sustainability depends on ecological sustainability."

— “America’s Living Oceans” [Pew Oceans Report, 2003]

This chapter gives an overview of physiographic features like Physiographic, Climate, Geology, Flore, Fauna, Administrative divisions and connectivity.

Keywords: Geography, Altitude, Climate, Flora, Fauna, Topography, Agro climate, District Divisions.

10.1 Physiographic Features The total geographical area of the state is 7096 sq. Kms. but according to 1958-60 survey operation and the gazetteer of Sikkim, the land area under different utilization categories is 7299 sq. Kms.

10.1.1 Location & geography

Sikkim is a very small hilly state in the Eastern Himalayas, extending approximately 114 Kms from north to south and 64Kms from east to west, surrounded by vast stretches of Tibetan Plateau in the North, Chumbi Valley of Tibet and the kingdom of Bhutan in the east, Darjeeling district of West Bengal in the south and the kingdom in Nepal in the west. The state being a part of inner ranges of the mountains of Himalaya has no open valley and no plains but carried elevations ranging from 300 to 8583 meters above means sea level consisting of lower hill, middle and higher hills, alpine zones and snow bound land, the highest elevation 8583 meters. Being the top of the Mt. Kangchendzonga itself.

Small but beautiful, Sikkim situated in the Eastern Himalayas spread below the world's third highest mountain Kangchendzonga (8585m) revered by the Sikkimese as their protective deity. Sikkim is separated by the Singalila range from Nepal in the west, Chola range from Tibet in the northeast and Bhutan in the southeast. Rangit and Rangpo rivers form the borders with the Indian state of West Bengal in the south.

Though measuring just 65 Km by 115 Km- the size of Switzerland it ranges from sweltering deep valleys a mere three hundred meters above sea level to lofty snow peaks such as Kangchendzonga . On its west side is the massive 31 Km long Zemu glacier. Various explorers and mountaineers have claimed to have seen Yeti or its foot prints in the vicinity of the mountain and its glacier- "The abominable snowman" has its place in folklore.

Sikkim's botanical and zoological affluence is truely impressive. The varities of birds and butterflies in Sikkim is matched only by incredible diversity in the animal and botanical world, nourished by unique and dramatic geographical features.

The lower altitudes are sub-tropical and abound in some of Sikkim's more than ```six hundred orchid verities, sprays of cardamom fruit orchards and terraced rice paddies. To the Lepchas- this was "Nye-mae-el" (Paradise), to the Bhutias it is "Beymul Denzong" (The hidden valley of Rice). Sikkim is commonly attributed to the Tsong's word "Sukhim" meaning (New or Happy Home) .

The people of Sikkim are warm, simple and friendly with a natural gaiety. The custom and rituals of sikkimese are as diverse as the ethnic groups that inhabit the land. They have an impressive repertoire of folk songs and dances. People of Sikkim love to celebrated with a gay abandon and their way of life is inextricably bound up with nature.




Just as Mt. Kangchendzonga is an indisputable part of the consciousness of the Sikkimese people, so too the rivers Tista and Rangitt with deep ravines and their valleys allowing monsoon to penetrate in the northernmost parts which nourishes this "Garden of the Himalayas".

At higher altitudes, monsoon mist cling to huge tracts of lichen covered forest, where every conceivable species of Rhododendron and giant magnolia trees, conifers and beautiful flowering plants as Primulas, Gentians, Blue poppies, Wild strawberry, Raspberry. All over Sikkim forest and wilderness areas are inhabited by the Snow- Leopard, Thar, Yaks, wild Ass in the Tibetan pleatue, Bharal or Blue Sheep, Shapi and the symbol of Sikkim- the endangered Red Panda.

The land of five Treasures-Mt. Kangchendzonga - the massive part of massive Himalayan range and other spectacular peaks of lives of Sikkimese people. The best known peaks are Pauhunri (7125m), Pandim (6691m), Talung (6147m), Tent Peak (7365m), Jongsang (7459m), Rathong (6679m), Koktang (6147m) and Sinioulchu (6887m) regarded by the mountaineers as the most beautiful peak in the world.

Amidst the grandeur of the mountain peaks lush valleys, fast flowing rivers, Sikkim offers her visitors a rare and singular experience. Within a matter of hour one can move from its sub-tropical heat of the lower valleys to the cold of the rugged mountain slopes that reach up to the areas of perpetual snow.

10.1.2 Climate

Due to sharp variance in the topography and the fact that the State is closer to the tropics, the climatic conditions also vary from tropical to the alpine.

Mid June to September is generally considered as summer/monsoon when the precipitation is maximum between 130 cm-430 cm. The maximum temperature ranges between 21ºC-37ºC and the minimum between 13ºC - 23ºC.October and November loosely form the autumn season with clear blue skies and lush green hillsides after a long monsoon.The winter stretches from December to February with the minimum temperature falling between 0ºC - 9ºC and maximum from 13ºC - 28ºC.

March to May is the spring season with warm days and cool nights. All seasons except the summer / monsoon season are good times to visit Sikkim.

10.1.3 Flora

The unique topography and location of Sikkim manifest in a diverse range of flora, which is tropical in the low-lying area and alpine in the high reaches of the mountains. Fortunately, the human population throughout history has been very low which has helped this place to maintain a high percentage of forest cover, evident even now.

Sikkim is very well known mainly for its orchids of which there are more than 400 species and rhododendrons numbering more than 35 species. Most of the orchids are found in the lower areas and the rhododendrons grow in the mid altitude and stretch up to the snow line where they are small shrubs, which grows up to barely a few inches high. The rhododendrons are best seen in Varsey, Lachung valley and the slopes of Menam. During March/April these areas are a riot of colors. This can also be experienced on the trek to Dzongri and beyond Goechala (5000 mtrs).

The orchids bloom almost throughout the year depending on the species but most of them flower during springs and autumn. The rhododendron s start flowering by mid March in the lower levels and continues upto May in the higher elevation.




10.1.4 Fauna

The snow leopard, "Shapi", the Tibetan sheep. The blue sheep, Kiang the Tibetan Wild ass, the Red Panda are some of the rare mammals found in the higher altitude of Sikkim. Besides, the State is also home to a large number of insects and birds. Of the total 1400 types of butterflies are found in the Indian sub-continent, almost 50% of them are found in Sikkim. For a naturalist, this place is indeed a treasure trove of many rare species of fauna, which can be encountered in such a relatively small area.

10.1.5 People

The people of Sikkim can be ethnically categorized into Lepcha, Bhutia and Nepalese. The Lepchas are considered to be the original inhabitants of Sikkim who practiced nature worship and lived off the forest. With the coming of the Bhutias, this tribal community was overwhelmed culturally and religiously. Lepcha culture and ways of life can be seen in some villages even now.

The Bhutias, Buddhist by faith are said to have come from the eastern region of Tibet sometime in the 14th century. They found the land warm and fertile and named it "Dema-zong" or the "Valley of Rice". Moreover, Sikkim was very prominently mentioned by Guru Padmasambhava (the great 7th century Buddhist saint who strengthened Buddhism in Tibet) in his scriptures, as a very sacred place. It was also in consonance with his scriptures the first "Chogyal" or the religious king was consecrated at Yuksom in 1641. Since then the Namgyal Dynasty ruled Sikkim uninterrupted till 1975.

The Nepal community is a generalized term for the many castes and sub-communities like Brahmins, Chhetris, Newars, Kamis, and Damais, who are Aryans in origin and the Rais, Limbus, Gurungs, Magars, and even Sherpas who are basically Mongoloid. This community came into Sikkim from 19th century though the Limbus are said to have come much earlier. They were more agriculturists unlike the Bhutias who were mainly dependent on animal husbandry back home or the Lepchas who were forest folks. The fertile valley was terraced to grow paddy and maize and later cardamom as a cash crop.

The ethnic Sikkim is best seen in the villages rather than the towns, which have become more cosmopolitan in demography and culture.

Buddhism has had a deep impact since time immemorial in history when Guru Padmasambhava traveled to Tibet. This has manifested in 200 monasteries and holy shrines. The oldest amongst the monasteries is the one at Dubdi, about an hour's walk from Yuksom. But Pemayangtse monastery has been more prominent due to the privilege bestowed to the Chief Abbot to coronate the successive Chogyal. In recent time, the Rumtek monastery is widely known as the seat of the Kagyupa sect and also the head quarter of the worldwide Karma Kagyu centre. The Bhutias are Buddhist and so are most the Lepchas. The Nepalese are Chiefly Hindus but many people in the villages, regardless of their religion still have strong beliefs in the spirits which are said to inhabit the mountains and hills, rocks and caves, streams and rivers and even trees and forests which are to be appeased by the "Jhankri" or the "Bongthings".

10.1.6 Geology of sikkim

Sikkim geology mainly consists of infertile soil, which is not very suitable for agricultural purposes. Half-schistose, gneissose and Precambrian are the three major rock constituents of the geology of Sikkim . Precambrian rock is found in a big part of the state of Sikkim and hence is a significant part of Sikkim geology. The region taken up by this rock has a relatively smaller age than the hilly




regions of the state. The Precambrian rock is made up of schists and phyllites. The presence of schists and phyllites makes the slopes of the region prone to erosion and weathering. The possibility of erosion of soil and the reduction of mineral content is increased by excessive rainfall. Such a geology at Sikkim is susceptible to natural disasters like landslides. These landslides often separate the villages and towns from the well developed regions of Sikkim. The hilly regions of Sikkim mainly constitutes of two kinds of rocks - half-schistose and gneissose. These two kinds of rocks form crucial constituents of the geology in Sikkim. The kind of soil prevalent in the north-eastern state of Sikkim is suitable for deciduous and evergreen forests. The soil does not have a high content of organic matter. The soil is not rich in minerals. The texture of this soil is coarse. The soil quality is not very good and the soil level is not thick enough. It has a high content of the chemical compound of iron oxide. The presence of these two kinds of rocks have turned the soil of these regions brown and clayey.

10.1.7 Geomorphology

Sikkim encompasses the lesser Himalaya, Central Himalaya, and the Tethys Himalaya. It is essentially a mountainous state without flat piece of land of any extent anywhere. The mountains rise in elevation northward. The northern portion of the state is deeply cut into steep escarpments, and except in the Lachen and Lachung valleys, is not populated. Southern Sikkim is lower, more open, and fairly well cultivated. This configuration of the State is partly due to the direction of the main drainage which is southern. The physical configuration of Sikkim is also partly due to geological structure. Major portion of state is covered by Precambrian rock and is much younger in age. The Northern, Eastern and Western portion of the state are constituted of hard massive gneissose rocks capable of resisting denudation. The central and southern portion is formed of comparatively soft, thin, salty and half-schistose rocks which denudes very easily. The trend of the mountain system is in a general east-west direction. However, chief ridges run in a more or less north south direction. The Rangeet and the Tista which form the main




channels of drainage, run nearly north-south. The valleys cut by these rivers and their chief feeders are very deep. The valleys are rather open towards the top, but usually attain a steep gorge like structure as we approach the bed of the rivers. There are 180 perennial lakes of different altitudes. Many hot water springs i.e. Phur-Cha, Ralang Sachu, Yumthang, Momay are also found in the state. The Perpetual snow line in Sikkim may be approx. at 16,000 ft.

10.1.8 Natural resources

The state is gifted with abundant natural resources. The resources can be grouped into biotic or a biotic, both of which can be renewable. Biotic resources include agriculture crops. Fodder and forests. The entire Himalayan region is endowed with natural flora and fauna, and is a natural paradise for nature lovers, conservationists’, botanists, zoologists and environmentalists. There are 4000 species of flowering plants, 300 species of ferns and its allies, 11species of Oaks, 8 species of tree ferns, 30-40 species of Primulas 20 species of bamboos. In Fauna, the state is also very rich 144 species of mammals. 500-600 species of birds, over 400 species of butterflies and moths. Many species of reptiles etc. are available. Many medicinal plants/herbs/and important shrubs are found in low and high altitude areas. Other resources are water resources, human resources, livestock resources, hydro-electric potential, tourism, agricultural,

Horticulture etc. In forest, non-wood forest produce has a vast potential like sand, boulders and other materials. Under economic geology the minerals like copper, iron, lime, dolomite/limestone, coal, quartzite and tale, silicate & graphite are available in the state. Garnet is abundant in the gneiss and mica schist’s at places. Large cardamoms production is very high in the state. The basic information on various natural resources is either not available or if available it is not adequate and up to date. There is a vast potential for hydro-electric power generation. Tourism development deserves consideration to add to the economy of the region.




10.1.9 Climate

The climate of the state has been roughly divided into the tropical, temperature and alpine zones. For most of the period in a year, the climate is cold and humid as rainfall occurs in each month. The area experiences a heavy rainfall due to its proximity to the Bay of Bengal. The rainfall in north district is comparatively less than of the other districts. The general trend of decrease in temperature with increase in altitude holds good everywhere. Pre-monsoon rain occurs in April-May and monsoon (south-west) operates normally from the month of May and continues up to early October.

10.1.10 Temperature

The mean temperature in the lower altitudinal zone, it varies from 1.5 degree centigrade to 9.5 degree centigrade. Temperature varies with altitude and slope. The maximum temperature is recorded usually during July and August and minimum during December & January. Fog is a common feature in the entire state from May to September. Biting cold is experienced at high altitude places in the winter months and snowfall is also not uncommon during this period.

TEMPERATURE MAP




10.1.1 Rainfall

An examination of available rainfall date shows that the mean annual rainfall is minimum at Thangu (82 mm.) and maximum at Gangtok (3494 mm.) . An iso hyatal analysis of these data reveals that there are two maximum rainfall areas (i) South-East quadrant, including including Mangan, Singhik, Dikchu, Gangtok, Rongli etc. (ii) South-West corner including Hilley. In between these two regions, there is a low rainfall region e.g. Namchi. Rainfall in this area is about half of that in the former areas. There is an area in the North-West Sikkim which gets very little rainfall (even less than 4.9 mm.). This area is having mainly snow -covered mountains. Rainfall is heavy and well distributed during the months from May to early October. July is the wettest month in most of the places. The intensity of rainfall during South-West monsoon season decreases from south to North, while the distribution of winter rainfall is in the opposite order. The highest annual rainfall for the individual station may exceed 5000 mm. and average number of rainy days (days with rain of 2.5 mm. or more) ranges from 100 at Thangu to 184 at Gangtok.

RAINFALL MAP




11 Infrastructure The level of infrastructure has been assessed at the GPU level considering the provision of water supply and sanitation to be used in an utilization capacity model.

The Himalayan State of Sikkim is characterized by its difficult terrain and harsh climate. Promotion of sustainable tourism in the state is a big challenge for the state government due to the presence of ecologically sensitive and Hazard prone areas. Tourism also has a huge impact on the infrastructure. Provision of the required infrastructure is also subject to various factors of which the most important are the climate and accessibility. The north district which remains inaccessible by road in the monsoons and the winter has infrastructure which is underutilized compared to the other districts. The east district and the south districts that also have a greater share of the total state population have show a increasing demand for good infrastructure due to the presence of throbbing urban centers of Gangtok and Namchi. The urbanization has resulted in a higher demand for clean water supply which was initially met by the natural streams called jhoras. Now many of these jhoras has been contaminated (especially in Gangtok) and hence rendered useless for drinking purpose. Though in the north district they are a important source of water. Maintenance of infrastructure like pipes and pumps is difficult as the water freezes in the winter season. To protect the Jhoras it’s important to have an efficient drainage system as most of the contamination is due to the sewage, solid waste from the households, and runoff from the roads. The Utilization Capacity model has been derived from the sanitation and water supply levels in every GPU. The figure 1 indicates the GPUs in North have moderately underutilized infrastructure while in the south and east districts the infrastructure is over utilized. Various state programs are being implemented in Sikkim and he review of their progress in the different districts also provides an insight into the future development that is to take place in terms of infrastructure development.

11.1 State Programmes:

11.1.1 National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) Under NREGA scheme projects like making of concrete stair path to the hill habitations, making of minor irrigation channels, construction of play ground for children has been executed by providing employment to the local population.

Figure 11-1: Utilization Capacity




11.1.2 Pradhan Mantri Gramin Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)

Under the PMGSY the State has fully connected habitations with population of 1000 plus and habitation with population range of 500 – 999. Only 22 and 59 habitations with a population range of less than 500 and less than 250 respectively are yet to be connected. The State has won ‘India Today’ award for best performance in stage I. The black topping of road which is to be done in Phase II is yet to be started. The maintenance cost of land is very high because of landslides, heavy rainfall and steep gradients and thus it expects that the maintenance cost of roads should be borne by the Central Govt. The cost of construction (per Km.) for NE States needs to be increased because of hilly terrain and high transportation cost.

11.1.3 Accelerated Rural Water Supply Programme (ARWSP):

The State has connected all habitation with drinking water facility. There are no quality affected habitations. Water quality monitoring & tests have shown that there is no inorganic contamination of water. However, it has been seen and reported that there are cases of bacteriological contamination specifically during the monsoon season. The onus of Operation & Maintenance of Water Supply disinfection system as well as the proper functioning of the water supply system lies solely with the beneficiaries.

11.1.4 Total Sanitation Campaign (TSC):

With the implementation of the pilot project ‘Total Sanitation Campaign’ in Sikkim, it has, over the years, successfully covered at large, the sanitation aspect in schools, individual households, anganwadis in rural areas, institutions and public places.Individual household latrines achievement in 2007-08 and 2008-09 is 107%, and 106% with full coverage. All schools and Anganwari Centres are also fully covered with sanitation facility. By 2008 end, Sikkim had attained 100% open defecation free environment, for which recognition came in the form of a gold medal being presented by the President of India of being the 1st State in the country for attaining this feat. The State Government has taken a policy decision to make Sikkim a Nirmal State (SWASTHYA RAJYA) by the year 2009. In addition, the State Government has also amended the Panchayati Raj Act making it mandatory for the PRI members to construct toilets of their own in households.

11.1.5 Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM):

Rehabilitation of sewers in Gangtok and five others UIDSSMT schemes of Water Supply at Mangan and Sewerage Scheme of Namchi, Jorethang, Melli, and Rangpo, is being implemented under JNNURM scheme. Gangtok Municipal Area has sewerage plan for four zones and under UIDSSMT, the sewerage work for Namchi, Jorethang, Melli and Rangpo is in progress with 40% , 50%, 75% and 25% work completed.

11.1.6 Rajiv Gandhi Gramin Vidyutikaran Yojana (RGGVY):

Under RGGVY, during 2008-09, 13288 BPL households have been given connectivity and 425 villages have been electrified.




11.1.7 Indira Awaas Yojana:

The 20% of the allocation for the scheme is being utilized for upgradation of houses. Against 19235 BPL rural households so far constructed, the State has covered 13747 new houses and 5488 under upgradation of existing houses.

Years 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10(upto Sep.’09) Targets Achievements Targets Achievements Targets AchievementsNo. of Houses constructed

1605 1534 2558 2290 2129 946




12 Socio-Economic Condition The socio-economic condition has been assessed at the GPU level considering the no. of BPL card holders, poverty index and sex ratio in an socio-economic model.

The green cover of the State is critical for sustaining livelihoods in agriculture, animal husbandry, and tourism. Forest resources have catered to the requirements of local communities and tourism. The geographical and climatic characteristics of the State have deeply influenced its economic and social development. Human settlements and economic activities have been built around local ecology and terrain. The impact of climatic change due to global warming and other factors has to be considered. This is also relevant in the context of natural disasters that are occurring with increasing frequency in recent years. The economy-environment dualism is vital in Sikkim. Issues related to displacement, rehabilitation, and resettlement, which are too often acute but silent, have to be addressed. The persistence of poverty in this hill State is in stark contrast to its relatively high achievement in the social sectors as compared to the national average. However, this could be explained by considering that Sikkim remained marginalized from the development activities that characterized mainstream India. Prior to its merger with India, its very political economy did not, in fact, permit Sikkim to entertain development interventions of a democratic variety. Only in the last 25 years, the philosophy of growth with equity and self-reliance in the planned development of the State has become important. While the decrease in urban poverty has been constant, rural poverty decreases have alternated with increases. The high per capita income vis-à-vis a very high poverty status implies that income distribution is much skewed in Sikkim. The coexistence of extremely affluent segments with the astonishingly poor over-whelming majority has been common to many States in the North-East. Secondly, since most of the poverty-stricken people are concentrated in rural areas, the urban-rural gap, in terms of both distribution of income and asset creation, could emerge in a very precarious manner. In the long run, this may go against environmental security and socio-economic sustainability of the State. Thirdly, the syndrome of income concentration indicates a deviation in the fundamental principle of objective governance and management of the economy wherein the guiding philosophy has been to distribute national wealth across the State in an increasingly equitable manner.

RURAL URBAN COMBINED Years No. of persons

(million) % of total No. of Persons

(million) % of total No. of Persons

(million) % of total

1973-74 0.11 52.67 0.010 36.92 0.118 50.86 1977-78 0.14 59.82 0.013 32.71 0.154 55.69 1983 0.12 42.60 0.010 21.73 0.134 39.71 1987-88 0.13 39.35 0.004 9.94 0.135 36.00 1993-94 0.18 45.01 0.003 7.73 0.184 41.43




Based on the norms and assessment format devised by the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, Sikkim’s Department of Rural Development has also estimated the percentage of families below the poverty line through a Below Poverty Line (BPL) Survey. Taking a norm of Rs 11,000 per annum per family as the threshold level, the State Bureau of Economics and Statistics estimated that 71 per cent of the total families were still below the poverty line in 1995. These high estimates of the BPL Surveys have been criticized both on grounds of methodology and non-sampling error. In eligibility surveys, in fact, it is difficult to exclude those who want to be included as potential beneficiaries. The State Bureau also attempted to estimate the number of people living below the poverty line by adopting the calorie intake method and expenditure method as followed by the Planning Commission. The Ninth Five Year Plan estimated that approximately 57 per cent of the rural and 25 per cent of the urban families are living below the poverty line in Sikkim. Another important feature of the demographic trends in Sikkim is that till 2001 the sex ratio was much lower than the national average. This could have been caused, among other factors, by in-migration of a large number of male workers. Districts Rural Urban North Chungthang Mangan(HQ)

836 782 852

581 581

East Gangtok(HQ) Pakyong Rangpo Sigtam

883 875 901 712

759 764 778

South Namchi(HQ) Ravong Jorethang

898 914 872

693 620 719

West Gyalshing Soreng(HQ) Nayabazar

919 910 928

760 626 866

Sikkim 892 750




13 Impact Identification "A society is defined not only by what it creates, but by what it refuses to destroy."

— John Sawhill, former president/CEO of The Nature Conservancy

This chapter details the methodology for development of Receptor sensitivity model based on parameters identified which have interface with Tourist development like socio economy, Infrastructure and conservation areas.

Keywords: Receptor sensitivity, Zoning, Habitable regions, backwardness index, Tourist activities.

13.1 Receptor Sensitivity The entire state is divided into two distinct regions based on their characteristics as Developable regions and No go regions. The kind of Tourist activity permissible in these regions has been identified to develop a potential impact prediction of these activities in the specified region in the succeeding chapter.

13.1.1 Special Criteria Regions

These are Restricted through legislation or sensitive by virtue of their Unique characteristics like Biodiversity, Availability of Rare species, Cultural Heritage in terms of Festival origin, Indigenous tribe existence, Scenic value and Ecological fragility. Hence these were subdividing into Conservation and restricted regions.

13.1.2 Developable Areas

These include Rural and Urban habitable regions. These are essential for infrastructure and amenities facilitation. By and large these also accommodate few tourist activities. Tourism being the Economic engine in Sikkim state it is important to analyze the impact on Employment. Hence indicators like Literacy, Poverty and Work force participation have been taken to develop a Backwardness index of the Gram Panchayat Units. Infrastructure Utilization capacity in GPUs have been analyzed to determine whether it can take up additional activities and the necessity for augmentation. From the tourism survey analysis it has been inferred that Drinking water, sanitation and connectivity are considered to be priority infrastructure in terms of tourist interface. Sikkim being a topographically challenging region, Geology and land form considerations are of high importance in any development activity involving alterations of existing features. Parameters like Soil erosion have been taken which would induce landslides and an index of Restricted, Not preferable areas has been developed.

13.1.3 Zoning the Tourist Activity

Three categories of Tourist activities have been developed in relation to spatial characteristics. Activities associated with no criteria Zones.

Activities permissible in both the regions

Activities permissible in developable areas.

Nature and Trekking Tourism Development of Lake and wetlands Adventure Tourism Recreation

Wellness Tourism Heli Tourism Premium Tourist Destination Village Tourism Piligramage and Buddhist tourism

Fairs and Festival Tourism Development and beautification of urban areas Ropeway Tourism Heritage Tourism




13.2 RECEPTOR SENSITIVITY Sp

ecia

l Cri

teri

a R

egio

n Parameters Indicators Identification Criteria

Conservation

Flora Medicinal plants

Fauna Important Bird Areas, Blue Ship Conservation, Musk deer Conservation

Cultural and community Heritage Lepcha Dominated areas, important Festivals origins Physical Heritage Archeological survey of India Recognition Natural Heritage Sacred Peaks, lakes and Hot springs

Restricted Areas Rivers, Lakes, Streams, Peaks Rivers- 200m Buffer, Lakes - 100m Buffer, Streams- 50m buffer Protected areas, Reserved Forest, Biodiversity Hotspots Government Notified Regions

Dev

elop

able

Are

as

Parameters Indicators Classification / Ranking

Socio-Economic

Poverty (BPL HH) 0-20% 21-40% 41-60% 61-80% 4 3 2 1

Literacy 0-25% 25-50% 50-70% >70% 1 2 3 4

Work participation <10% 10-20% 20-35% 35-50% 1 2 3 4

Cumulative 0-25% 25-50% 50-75% 75-100% 1 2 3 4

Infrastructure

Road Connectivity NH(4),SH(3),MDR(3),ODR(1) 4 3 2 1

Road Capacity(V/C) 0.6 0.7-2 2 to 3 <3 4 3 2 1

Sanitation(Flush with Septic*4+Flush*3+Openpits*2+No toilets*1

338-377 311-337 268-310 197-267 4 3 2 1

Water Supply (Tap*4+tank*3+spring*2+river*1) 356-2545 266 - 265 206-265 0-205 4 3 2 1

Density (PPH) 12-16 8-12 4-8 1-4 1 2 3 4

Preferable (landform & geology)

Soil erosion Rock Moderate Severe Very Severe

4 3 2 1

Slope

<25 25-35 35-45 >45

4 3 2 1 Table 4- Receptor Sensitivity Parameters




13.3 Model Development Model Development in ArcGIS can be done using the Model Builder tool. This allows the user to make dynamic models which can be used to give results in the form of different scenarios. This helps in making the process of building scenarios for the future less time consuming. Some of the models used in this study are having the following flow:

The above model takes input in the form of 3 vectors (BPL households, Literacy, Work-force-participation), converts them to raster (90m pixels), performs a overlay, and them gives the output according to the reclassification provided. Thus by changing the input parameters the effects on the output can be observed. The flowchart below shows the similar process for obtaining the utilization capacity map. The difference between the 2 is that the input variable of population density is given a inverse ranking to obtain the utilization capacity.

Figure 13-1: Flowchart for the Socio-economic Model

Figure 13-2: Flowchart for the Utilization Capacity Model




Socio- Economic Parameters like Poverty, Literacy and Sex Ratio obtained from a secondary source published by the Govt. of Sikkim was analyzed at the GPU level. These parameters were combined using the simple overlay technique to get the overall socio-economic scenario for the state of Sikkim.

Sanitation and Water supply at the state level were overlaid with the density criteria given inverted ranking. Thus the Utilization Capacity map obtained delineates the GPU units having underutilized infrastructure (North District) or over-stressed infrastructure (East District).




Special Criteria Zones were delineated by the weighted overlay method (Glacier-3, rivers-2, lakes-1). These natural features were overlaid after providing them with appropriate buffers. These buffers were, 1km for glaciers, 200m for rivers and lakes.

Soil Erosion Map

Glaciers Location

Slope map

Figure 13-3 -Proposed projects location




14 Impact Prediction "For mankind as a whole, a possession infinitely more valuable than individual life is our genetic heritage, our link with past and future... Yet genetic deterioration through man-made agents is the menace of our time..."

— Rachel Carson, author, Silent Spring

The magnitude of identified impacts is assessed by tourist inflow projection and impact predictions of activity having maximum investment. Networks have been used to determine direct and ultimate impacts. Based on the scale of activity magnitude of impact is determined as high/low/medium. A location criteria is developed based on receptor sensitivity model.

Keywords: Tourist projections, Traffic, Location criteria, Peak and off seasons, Investment, Trekking development

14.1 Projected Tourist Inflow

Visitor Projections Peak Period Projections 2015 2025 2040 Apr May Oct

Domestic 763,958 2,036,027 6,178,936 13.37 % 21.21 % 10.06 % International 33,631 74,306 244,030 15.42 % 7.70 % 16.99 %

Total 797,590 2,110,333 6,422,966 866369 %

1329342 % 602585 %

Table 5- Tourist Projections Accordingly a tourist traffic projection has been derived from surveys conducted. District East Sikkim South Sikkim West Sikkim North Sikkim

Tourism Activity Off Season

Peak Season

Off Season

Peak Season

Off Season

Peak Season

Off Season

Peak Season

Nature and Trekking Tourism Development of Lake and wetlands Adventure Tourism Recreation Wellness Tourism Heli Tourism Premium Tourist Destination Village Tourism Piligramage and Buddhist tourism Flori Tourism Fairs and Festival Tourism Ropeway Tourism Heritage Tourism Table 6- Projected tourist traffic inflow High Traffic Medium Traffic Low Traffic




These projections make it obvious that there needs to be an expansion in Tourism space in terms of Hospitality infrastructure like hotels, Tourist information centres and Basic amenities augmentation for fresh water, proper sanitation and connectivity to Tourist spots. This has been determined by overlapping map with proposed tourist projects on Receptor sensitivity model to determine whether the location of project is appropriate or not.

Based on the district wise share of tourist activity, it is established that North Sikkim by virtue of its Topographical features attracts Trekking and nature based Tourist activities. East Sikkim has most of the investment towards Recreation tourism because of more number of day trippers. South Sikkim has huge investment in Pilgrimage and Buddhist Tourism.

14.1.1 Impact Prediction:

Receptor Sensitivity model gives an insight into the carrying capacity of GPUs in the four districts. Impact Prediction of the predicted tourist activities has been studied by way of analyzing the probable positive and negative impacts of these activities. A matrix has been developed determining the suitability of tourist activities in GPUs based on the scoring developed.

Tourism Activity Proposed Investment – District wise Zoning Criteria East West North South Activities associated with no

criteria Zones. Nature and Trekking Tourism 11.69% 25% 46% 1% Development of Lake and wetlands 3.36% 4% 4% 0% Adventure Tourism 0.00% 0% 0% 2% Recreation 34.30% 9% 2% 2% Wellness Tourism 0.00% 0% 0% 2% Activities permissible in

both the regions Heli Tourism 0.00% 0% 11% 2% Premium Tourist Destination 0% 0% 14% 18% Village Tourism 13.10% 9% 5% 23% Piligramage and Buddhist tourism 16.35% 22% 10% 38% Flori Tourism 0.28% 10% 0% 2% Fairs and Festival Tourism 0.15% 0% 0% 0% Activities permissible in

developable areas. Development and beautification of urban areas

20.88% 0% 0% 0%

Other Infrastructure 0.00% 21% 8% 0% Ropeway Tourism 0.00% 0% 0% 10% Heritage Tourism 0.00% 0% 0% 1% Table 7 - District wise share of Tourist Activities




14.1.2 Impact Prediction – Trekking Development

INTERFACE BETWEEN TOURISM AND THE ENVIRONMENT

Impacts Impacting Groups Tourists Staff Local Community

Environmental Factors Deforestation No impact due to kerosene

use Alternative income sources to livestock activities.

Pollution solid waste management and water pollution

Solid waste measures at community level, Incidence of water borne diseases during peak tourist seasons

Biodiversity No Direct impact Highland pastures No impact Alternative income sources to livestock activities.

Economic Factors Economic benefits Employment (guides, porters, food and

lodging services, and market for local products and services)

Increased income, widening local market

Distribution of benefits

Part of entry and other fees going to local bodies; involvement of various stakeholders in income generating

activities Local investment Likely to increase in local tea shops,

small lodges, and campsites Promote small provision shops

Gender impacts Employment (guides, food and lodging services) Migration Reduce migration

Structure of local economy

Increase in nonfarm sectors

Enterprise development

Promoted




Sociocultural Factors

Environmental awareness

Awareness through economic benefits, advocacy, and interaction programs and

training

Greater awareness - community involvement in natural resource management.

Cultural sensitivity Support Cultural Preservation Affected due to lesser acceptance amongst the Lepcha communities Education and literacy level

Improvement due to training Programmes and awareness campaigns

Health status NA At stake due to pollution Table 8- Impact Prediction

14.1.3 Overall impact assessment

Subject Magnitude of Impact Duration of Impact Extent of Impact

Overall Assessment

Physical Environment Slope instability Medium to low Medium to long term Local Medium

Run-off Low Short term Site specific Low Landscape Medium to low Medium to short

term Site specific Medium

Landuse, land cover Low Short term Site specific Low Waste disposal and

pollution High Long term Site Specific High

Health & Sanitation Medium Medium to Longterm Local Medium Biotic Environment

Vegetation Medium Medium Site Specific Medium Threatened species Medium Medium Site Specific Medium

Wildlife Low Long term Site Specific Low Birds Low Long term Local Low Fish Insignificant Long term Site Specific Insignificant

Sociocultural and Economic Environment




Migration Medium Positive Impact Long term Site Specific Medium Benefit

Role of Women Low Long term Local Medium Culture Medium Medium Term Local Medium Festivals Low Long term Site Specific Low

Settlements Medium Long term Site specific Medium Agriculture Low Long term Local Low

Forest resources Medium Long term Local Medium Water resources High Short term Site specific High

Recreational resources Medium Positive Impact Long term Local Medium Benefit Table 9- Overall Impact Assessment

14.1.4 Location Criteria for Tourist Activity

Tourism Activity /parameters

Socio Economic Infrastructure

Literacy WFP BPL HH Pottable water supply Sanitation Road&Accessibility

Utilization capacity OU- Over Utilized

U-Under Utilized

Nature and Trekking Tourism >3 >3 >3 >3 4 2 2 Development of Lake and wetlands - >3 >3 >3 4 2 3

Adventure Tourism >3 - - - >3 2 3 Premium Tourist Destination - - - - 4 2 4

Recreation >3 - <2 >3 4 >3 1 Wellness Tourism >3 <2 <2 4 4 >2 2 Village Tourism >3 <2 <2 4 4 >3 4

Piligramage and Buddhist tourism >3 <2 <2 >3 4 4 2 Flori Tourism - <2 <2 >3 4 >3 3

Fairs and Festival Tourism <2 <2 >3 4 4 3 Ropeway Tourism - - - - - 4 - Heritage Tourism - - - - - >2 -

Table 10- Location criteria for Tourist Activity




Tourism Activity /parameters Conservation Geology

Lepcha Dominated

Communities

Cultural Heritage

Physical Heritage

Natural Heritage Biodiversity Slope Soil Erosion Altitude

Nature and Trekking Tourism >3 NP P R R >2 2 R Development of Lake and wetlands >3 P P R R >2 3 NP

Adventure Tourism >3 NP NP R R <2 2 P Premium Tourist Destination >3 NP NP R R 4 4 R

Recreation >3 NP P NP NP 4 >3 NP Wellness Tourism >3 NP P NP NP 4 >3 NP Village Tourism >3 NP NP NP NP 4 >3 NP

Piligramage and Buddhist tourism >3 NP P NP NP >3 >3 R Flori Tourism >3 NP p NP NP 4 4 NP

Fairs and Festival Tourism >3 P P R NP 4 4 R Ropeway Tourism >3 NP NP NP NP - 4 R Heritage Tourism >3 NP P NP NP - >3 R

R – Restricted; NP – Not Preferable




15 Environmental Management Plan (EMP) "Those who develop the technologies, who promote them and stand to profit most from them, are not those who suffer their risks. The analysis of technologies is biased toward their use because the technology promoters generally lack the expertise and the incentive to analyze the risks of the technologies for human health and the environment."

— H. Patricia Hynes, "The Recurring Silent Spring" [1989]

From the Strategic assessment of Sikkim Tourism Policy 2010, it has various kinds of impacts as seen in earlier chapters. Now, the Strategic Environmental management framework (SEMF) for proper implementation of Sikkim Tourism Policy 2010 could be as follows.

Keywords: Communication strategy, Safeguard mechanism, Recommendations, Stakeholder Analysis, Communication strategies

15.1 Strategic environmental management framework (semf)

Figure 15-1: Strategic Environmental Management Framework is outcome of initial assessment of Sikkim

15.2 Summary Recommendations for predicted impacts:

Parameter Activity proposed by

Tourism Policy

Safeguard measures Stakeholders

Biodiversity Nature and Trekking tourism,

-Guidance to be provided to the visitors an appropriate behaviour to minimize the

-Environment and forest department. -Tourism department.

SIKKIM TOURISM POLICY 2010




Premium Tourist destinations, Infrastructure development of Guru Dongmar lake and Recreation Tourism (Skywalk)

impacts on the flora and fauna. -Training of tour guides. -Restrictions on the location and construction technology of the camping sites. -To regulate the tourist inflow (seasonally and Daily) -Proper monitoring at Premium tourist destinations.

-Pokiri Samrakshana samiti. -Joint forest management Committees. -WWF -Lake management Communities. -Local communities

Landscape and visual impacts

-Construction of roads. -Construction of hotels, Road side amenities, Building construction of tourism projects, etc.

-Including landscaping as a part of road construction. -Maintaining the regional character while developing the new structures in tourism related projects. -Use of local materials for construction.

-PWD department -Architectural consultancies. -Tourism Department. -Roads and Border Organization.

Physical/Built Heritage

Restoration of Radbentse Palace Ruins. Maintenance of Dubdi Monastery and Coronation Throne of Norbugang.

-To develop building and restoration standards

-Cultural affairs and Heritage Department. -ASI -Tourism Department.

Cultural Heritage Lepcha community Festivals

Opening of remote villages with sensitive lepcha communities.

To develop code of ethics and guidelines to develop village tourism in such villages.

-Tourism department -local panchayat. -Local community

Carrying Capacity and visitor flow control

Promotion of tourism in ecologically sensitive areas. Mass tourism in south and east district.

-To undertake detailed carrying capacity assessments at sensitive areas like Changu lake, Trekking areas and popular sites such as Char Dham. -Dispersal of tourists to less visited areas. -Seasonal restrictions to sensitive sites during breeding seasons.

-Tourism development -G.B Pant Institute.

15.3 Safeguard Measures for Tourism activities & Stakeholder Analysis: According to the tourism activities identified as having potential impacts under the tourism policy, the following are some of the tourism activities which need to be improved.




15.3.1 Cultural Tourism:

• Under the cultural tourism charter, the host communities and indigenous peoples should be involved in planning for conservation and tourism.

• Tourism and conservation activities should benefit the host community. • According to WWF international, community-based ecotourism takes the social dimension of

ecotourism a stage further, by developing “a form of ecotourism where the local community has substantial control over, and involvement in, its development and management, and a major proportion of the benefits remain within the community.”

• It embraces both collective responsibility and individual initiatives within the community.

Case Studies: • The Responsible Ecological Social Tours (REST) Project, Thailand, works to assist local Thai

communities in developing their own small-scale sustainable tourism projects. The local farmers have begun re-introducing wild orchid species into areas of the forest which had previously been deforested.

• The Himalayan Homestays, an innovative community-based ecotourism program by the Snow Leopard Conservancy was a winner of the Global Vision Awards 2005 in recognition for its “exceptionally farsighted program” that links tourism with conservation through culturally and environmentally friendly homestays. Local communities become guardians of healthy populations of snow leopards by minimizing livestock depredation while empowering local people to directly benefit from an ecosystem that includes snow leopards.

15.3.2 Trekking Tourism:

• Environmental impacts caused by trekking tourists can be physical or biological. • Rail widening, muddiness, soil erosion and compaction are counted among the physical impacts

whereas undesired biological effects are vegetation trampling and degradation, forest thinning, decreased biodiversity and wildlife disturbance. Further impacts include water pollution caused by littering, and overgrazing caused by pack animals. “Safeguarding biodiversity is an urgent challenge that concerns us all – the international community, governments, companies and travellers – but it is not too late to act”.

Activity Facility Pitching tents Tenting platform Toilets Septic tank toilets with internal water supply Solid waste disposal Pit for bio degradable waste Kitchen Fire place platform for cooking

Store Facility for storage of essential stores likes firewood and packaged food & first aid for emergency.

• Local authorities should open the whole region to tourism leading to a more balanced use of tracks.

• Management plans should focus on zoning schemes in order to obviate further environmental damage.

• Conservation education involving the host community, solid waste management and clean-up campaigns and thereby encouraging local participation in this process. It will also provide employment opportunities for people.




• Engaging the host community has the positive side-effect to help reach socio-cultural sustainability.

• Travellers should be self-responsible of informing themselves about the area they are about to visit, including environmental issues.

• Fire safety being one of the major concerns, it is proposed to keep only 1 single platform with enclosure at the designated fire place.

• Construction of any permanent structure to be avoided. • The camp sites to be provided with essential stores for heating and packaged food, camping and

first aid kits for emergency, to avoid trekkers and porter scouting for firewood in the national park forest area.

• Proper toilet facilities for trekker, porters with internal water supply. • Ecological toilets can be used as one of the options.

15.3.3 Village Tourism: Infrastructure for environmental improvement

• Visitors interpretation centre documenting the local tourism products • Improvement open air performance area to function as open air theatre for about 100 tourist,

thorough development of seating and lightning • Improvement of street furniture, street lighting, etc • Solid waste collection and disposal system • Foot paths, paving with stone along the village walks • Small scale on site sanitation improvements • Training of local communities, guides, home stay, etc • Training for development, marketing of handicraft products • The segregation of non-degradable wastes like plastic and metal. • Vermiculture pits could be developed for the degradable waste.

15.3.4 Adventure Tourism:

• To establish sustainable development strategies, and truly “conservation priority” principle implementation.

• Tourists and control of insecurity.

• Strengthening the tourism operators and organizations, risk management control

functions of management; - enhancing the permit system - high quality, high capacity with adventure tourism practitioners




- standards, compliance check training principles • Improve the safety of adventure tourism rescue system

- establishment of public security system by local govt. - configuration of local rescue workers - equipped with rescue equipment and communication facilities improved.

• Stakeholders involved in Adventure Tourism

• The above graph is the Grid method analysis for stakeholders involved in any activity. The

Stakeholders are the individuals or groups which have both positive and negative impact due to involvement in any policies or a project. On the x-axis are the Interests of the stakeholders and on the y-axis is the Power of the stakeholders in the Sikkim Tourism Policy. Hence, the stakeholders having high power and high interests are government institutions like Tourism department, Sikkim roads & bridges department etc. The stakeholders having high power but low interests are the politicians, the stakeholders having high interests but low power are the citizens of Sikkim, local panchayat, NGOs etc and the stakeholders having low power and low interests are the private companies like construction companies & consultants.

• Enforcement agency for adventure tourism: For improvement in existing adventure tourism the framework for below could be applicable;




CHAIRMAN

MEMBERS ATOAI – Adventure Tour Operators Association of India NIWS – National Institute of Water Sports IAPRO – Indian Association of Professional Rafters PFI – Parachuting Federation of India IMF – Indian Mountaineering Foundation

15.3.5 Premium Destination Tourism:

• Such kind of tourism is generally in a very ecological sensitive area so; proper safeguard measures must be taken.

• Selection of site location should be such that, its environmental impact must be low as much as possible.

• Use of environment friendly materials for the construction of the resort/camp/stay homes. • Only local available materials and resources must be allowed for use. • Limited number of rooms should be allowed to construct. • Local community & tourists should be involved and educated to protect and monitor the premium

destinations. • There should Corporate Social Responsibility practiced to support the local institutions, schools,

etc. & social activities must be conducted. • The Common Framework for a Premium Destination Tourism could be as follows,




15.4 Effective Communication Strategies: • Installing proper signage. • Installation of district/region wise tourist centers which would be well connected with each

other and with the tourist centre at Gangtok. • counseling trough video for some special areas.

15.5 Overall Management Framework



ANNEXURES



Annexure 1- Survey Formats

Tourist Survey(Respondent is the Head of the Family, in case of Family)

1. Name of the tourist place

2. Category of tourist

a. Foreign Tourist , b. Domestic tourist , c. Domestic Day-visitor-, d. Foreign Day-visitor.

3. Is this your first visit ? Yes/ No If no, for how many times did you visit this place

4. From where did you get to know about this tourist spot a. Friends, b. Relatives, c.Parents, d.Others

5 Normally with whom do you prefer to visit tourist place ?

6 With whom did you come? a. Friends, b. Relatives, c.Parents, d.Others

7 How many people came along with you?

8 Purpose of visit?

Cultural activities ,Resorts (beaches, hills etc.), Wildlife, Others, Visiting friends and relatives, Business and professional ,Health and treatment ,Social / Religious functions ,Pilgrimage, Education, Conference, Employment, Sports – participating or witnessing, Others(Mention if any)

9 For how long are you going to stay?

10 What all the places did you visit in the Sikkim ?

11 What are the place you are going to visit in Sikkim ?

12.

Which Place attracted you the most ?

13 What is the budget for this tour?

14 Did you contact anyone before visit?Yes/No If Yes Place where contacted (Hotel –1, Tourist spot –2, Others (specify) -3

15 Where are you staying?

16 What is the cost of accommodation you are paying per day ?

17 How far is it ?

18 Number of Night Stay ?

a) Currently Number of night stay



b) Number of night stay in future 19 If it is a package tour, what is the total cost of the package per day (in Rs.)

20 Mode of Transportation? a. Personal Vehicle, b. Travels Vehicle, c. Rented Car, d.Others (Specify)

21 Charge of the vehicle if Rented/ Travels vehicle (per Km)

22 How different Sikkim tourism from other tourist place?

23 Which is your favorite tourist spot in Sikkim ?

24 What kind of problems have you faced ?

25 Do You have any suggestions for the future deve;lopment?

26 Satisfactory levels

Excellent

V.Good Good

Satisfactory

Not Satisfactory

Worse

Transportation Food Accommdation Law & order Behaviour of local People Cooperation of offcials Others (Specify)

27 Reference per day Expenditure: a) Accommodation Services b) Food and Beverage Serving Services Services Amount (Rs.) Railway Station, bus stand, train Hotels Private Guest House Tourist Guest House Govt. Guest House Dharamshala Restaurants Cafeteria Snack bars Lunch counters Refreshments stands Canteens



Milk bars Bars & other drinking places Others Mela, Fair, Picnic

28 Evaluation: a)Transport within the centre Excellent –1, Good – 2, Satisfactory-3, Poor-4 b) Local transport within the centre Excellent –1, Good – 2, Satisfactory-3, Poor-4 c) Accommodation Excellent –1, Good – 2, Satisfactory-3, Poor-4 d) Accommodation tariff High- 1, Reasonable- 2, Cheap- 3 e) Food Quality Very good- 1, Satisfactory- 2, Poor- 3 f)Tourist attraction at the centre Very interesting- 1,Average- 2, Not interesting- 3 g) Entertainment Facility Excellent- 1,Satisfactory- 2, Poor- 3 h) Shopping Facility Adequate -1, Inadequate -2

29 On an overall basis, how satisfied or dissatisfied are you with your visit there? Very satisfied-1, Quite satisfied-2, Not sure-3,Somewhat dissatisfied -4 Very dissatisfied-5

30 Reasons for dissatisfied Security concerned Restricted moment/ curves on free moment Accessibility Knowledgeable Guides at reasonable price Swindlers Internal Transport at reasonable rates Accommodation Problems Food Problems Congestion / crowded Environment Toilet Facilities Discourteous behaviour Communication ATM & Credit card facilities Others - specify

31 Please give your suggestions for improvement of tourist services :



Questionnaire: Tourist Accommodation Unit 1. Name of the Hotel/Establishment

2. Address of the Hotel/establishment

3. Type of accommodation unit:

a. 1 Star, b.2 Star, c.3 Star, d.4 Star, e.5 Star, f. Deluxe, g. Heritage hotel, h.Unstarred hotel, i.Guest House, j.Tourist Bungalow, k.Dormitory, l.Youth Hostel, m. Dharamsala

4. Ownership details a.Govt,b.Public LTD Company, c. Private LTD Company, d. Single Owner, e. Charitable Trust

5 Year of commencement.

6 Do you have any other hotels other than this?

7 Number of Rooms/Beds

Type of Accommodation No. of Rooms No. of Beds Dormitory / Hall Single AC Double AC Suits AC Single Non AC Double Non AC Suits Non AC

8 Give detail of tariff

9 Facility Available

Type of facility A.C Without A.C Number Capacity

(specify the unit: sitting/No of

persons)

Number Capacity (specify the

unit: sitting/No of persons)

Banquet Hall Conference Hall Health Club Massage centre Others (specify)



10 Whether Swimming Pool Facility Available

11 Average Occupancy Ratio during the month (Specify the peak season & off season )

Questionnaire: Tour & Travel Agents/ Tourist Car Operator 1. Name of the area

2. Name of the Establishment

3. Year of start

4. Number of employees

5 How many employees are there, totally, in your restaurant?

Departments No.of Permanent employees No.of casual or temporary employees

Administration Ticketing Foreign Exchange Accounts Tours Sales and Marketing Total

6 Monthly earnings

7 Taxes Paid

8 Percentage of earnings from the Tourist

9

10

11

12.



Questionnaire: For Establishments: Restaurants 1. Name of the area

2. Name of the Establishment

3. Year of start

4. Number of employees

5 How many employees are there, totally, in your restaurant?

Departments No.of Permanent employees

No.of casual or temporary employees

Management Kitchen Service Accounts Purchase Store Security Maintenance Delivery Total

6 Monthly earnings

7 Taxes Paid

8 Percentage of earnings from the Tourist

9

10

11

12.



Annexure 2: Maps

a n a l , A m o l , H i m a B i n d u , R a m y a , R o h i t , S a g a r S o n a l 1 0 0 | P a g e


Rainfall



Annexure 3: Photos Gallery

grp 1 sea_final

Documents

industrial policy of

r s o n

r o h i t

tourism policy initiatives

history of sikkim

industrial policy initiatives

b i n d u

g e eia lab ep