The B20 Conference under India’s G20 presidency commenced today in Gangtok, Sikkim with the theme ‘Tourism, Hospitality, Pharmaceutical and Organic Farming’.
The event was graced by Sikkim Chief Minister P S Tamang Golay, V B Pathak, Chief Secretary, Sikkim, Rupa Dutta, Principal Adviser, DPIIT, Government of India, Ashish Kumar Sinha, Joint Secretary (G20), G20 Secretariat, Government of India, Mr Noor Rahman Sheikh, Joint Secretary (Economic Diplomacy).
In his key note address as the Chief Guest, Chief Minister of Sikkim highlighted that with the SDG index of 71 scores high amongst States and have been successful in creating sustainable livelihood through pro people policies. Chief Minister further stated that Sikkim has been recognised as the First Organic State in the country and a booming tourism potential which can be leveraged by the global community.
V B Pathak, Chief Secretary of Sikkim outlined the potential of Sikkim in the sectors of organic farming, tourism, pharmaceuticals and hospitality. While mentioning that the State has entered into a joint venture with a private player on Organic Farming, Chief Secretary also highlighted that the State has come out with investment friendly policies on tourism to attract tourists especially eco and adventure tourism.
The inaugural session was proceeded by a plenary session on exploring the opportunities for Multilateral Business Partnerships in Tourism, Hospitality, Organic Farming and Pharmaceutical.
The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in collaboration with the Government of Sikkim and Ministry of External Affairs and DPIIT are partners in this initiative.
Delegation from 22 countries with 53 overseas participants converged in Sikkim for the Conference which also included more than 100 Indian delegations. They will be taken to the Rumtek Monastery, the largest monastery in Sikkim tomorrow for showcasing its rich cultural heritage.
