The second day of the International Youth Conclave for Tourism Development, organised by the Yangang Tourism Development Committee (YTDC) with support from the Tourism Department, Government of Sikkim, focused on meaningful discussions and awareness programmes around sustainable and responsible tourism.
The Deputy Speaker of the Sikkim Legislative Assembly, Raj Kumari Thapa, attended the programme as the Chief Guest. Her presence showed the government’s strong support for youth-led initiatives in tourism and the development of local communities through eco-friendly ideas. The conclave has brought together delegates from 17 states, 3 union territories, and 3 countries.
Many important guests were also present on the second day. These included Political Secretary to the Hon’ble Chief Minister Bikash Basnet, tourism expert Sanjeev Agarwal, Ex-Zilla Adhyaksha C.L. Gurung, SDM Yangang K.L. Dahal, BDO Yangang Smt. Neday Bhutia, Nari Shakti Convenor Smt. Denkila Bhutia, Principal of YSSS Shri Pushpa Raj Dhungel, Executives of YTDC, BDO T.T. Bhutia, and Joint Secretary Anil Rai.
The day began with the arrival of the guests and delegates, followed by a warm welcome to the Chief Guest by the President of YTDC. After the welcome speech, the Hon’ble Deputy Speaker delivered a motivational speech, praising the effort and its connection to Sikkim’s goal of promoting sustainable tourism and youth leadership.
Two panel discussions were held. The first session, titled “The Impact of Tourism on Local Economies,” was moderated by Phurba Wangdi (MD SBS). Speakers included Devashish Chakravarty (Advisor, ETTHOA), Dr. A.B. Karki (Secretary, Print & Stationeries Department), Yash Marda (Treasurer, SHRA), Samrat Sanyal (General Secretary, HHTDN), and Ms. Yangchen Tongden Lepcha (Vice President, TAAS). They talked about how tourism helps local communities by creating jobs, generating income, and improving infrastructure.
The second session was titled “Yangang Forward: A Journey of Adventure, Sustainability, and Responsible Tourism.” It was moderated by Amit Periwal (Director, Clubside Holidays), and speakers included Hemant Agarwal (CEO, Suvida Aapki), Sadip Lama (Yashree Group), Rewaj Chettri (MD, NE Origin & TEDx Speaker), and Robin Basnet (Member, YTDC). They shared ideas for developing Yangang into a youth-friendly, responsible tourism destination.
Between the sessions, the Yangang Tourism Brand Film was shown, giving the audience a glimpse of the natural beauty, culture, and tourism opportunities of the area.
In the afternoon, an Awareness Programme on Mental Health and Substance Abuse was held by the Education Department. It was followed by a presentation under the UNNATI scheme by Abhimanyu Dhakal. This session focused on mental well-being and the challenges young people face related to substance abuse. It supported the conclave’s wider aim of promoting youth development in all areas.
It is important to note that the International Youth Conclave for Tourism Development was officially inaugurated on 12th April 2025 by the Chief Minister of Sikkim, Prem Singh Tamang Golay. He emphasized that tourism is an important part of Sikkim’s growth and that events like this help bring real change to places like Yangang.
The conclave continues to inspire young people, tourism professionals, and the local public to see Yangang as a model for sustainable tourism. Local entrepreneurs also took part in the event by setting up stalls to display and sell their products, showcasing the community’s talent and creativity.
