Indian Army, while guarding the borders has been undertaking number of initiatives to promote tourism, especially in the border areas of Sikkim.
While the State Civil Administration & Department of Tourism controls the movement of tourists into the protected border areas of Sikkim, the Indian Army by virtue of its presence is always ready to assist the Civil Administration & Tourists for any assistance required, especially in times of emergency arising due to weather condition or health condition of tourists.
On 21st February 2024 , Army assisted more than 500 stranded tourists in Natu La when sudden snowfall blocked the road and temp dipped into minus.
The troops of Army deployed in the border areas of Sikkim facilitate tourist visit to places like Natu La, Harbhajan Baba Mandir, Sherathang, Old Silk Road etc in East Sikkim and Yumthang Valley, Zero Pint, Gurudongmar Lake and other places in North Sikkim which are the major attractions for tourists visiting Sikkim.
With more than a million visitors annually tourism is a major source of income for locals.
Trishakti Corps also promotes tourism by showcasing the beauty of the border areas through its cultural centres and museums. The Corps has developed a Heritage Centre at Sukna, which showcases the history and rich flora and fauna of Sikkim.
The initiatives by Trishakti Corps for welfare of local population got a further boost with the Welfare Schemes under Operation Sadbhavana. In the very first year itself, a total of 68 welfare projects amounting to more than Rs 5.5 Crores have been implemented in the border areas including Vibrant Villages. Many such projects are planned for the next year as well.
Soldiers are always at the forefront of any rescue mission during any emergency arising out of natural calamity or challenging weather conditions. During the GLOF and its aftermath in Oct 23, the troops played major role in sustenance of the stranded locals and tourists for over one week, rescue of tourists & restoring communication and connectivity to the areas cut off.
Every season, large number of tourists get stranded due to sudden snow fall or landslide wherein due to its location and efficient response drills the Indian Army always becomes the first responders and swings into action assisting the civil administration in rescue and relief operation.
Indian Army while guarding the borders in the Himalayas, is always proactive in providing assistance to the tourists & local populations.