SORENG: A review meeting on the proposed establishment of a Digital Nomad Village at Gumpa Dara, Soreng, was held on Friday at the District Administrative Centre (DAC), Soreng, under the chairmanship of ADC-I Mr DR Bista.
In his address, ADC-I Mr DR Bista welcomed everyone and presented a detailed PowerPoint presentation on the proposed Digital Nomad Village at Gumpa Dara, highlighting the potential of this initiative to diversify the local economy, create employment opportunities for youth and promote sustainable tourism in the district.
The presentation included learnings from India’s first Digital Nomad Village at Yakten, Pakyong District and how a similar model could be adapted in Soreng. The presentation further provided an overview of Soreng’s natural beauty, including panoramic views of Mt Kanchenjunga, monasteries, trekking routes, rich biodiversity and homestay culture.
He then, outlined the project’s objectives, including the establishment of high-speed internet connectivity, co-working hubs, upgraded homestays, eco-friendly pathways and community-led cultural activities. The need for departmental convergence was also emphasised, with active participation from the Departments such as Tourism, IT, Rural Development, Power, PHE, Health and Panchayats along with the private partners and homestay owners. The presentation further detailed the phased implementation plan, followed by infrastructure development, community training and pilot operations.
Additionally, the expected outcomes of the Digital Nomad Village were highlighted, including promotion of digital tourism, creation of sustainable livelihoods and support for local entrepreneurs. The project is further complemented by its nearness to popular destinations such as Jhandi Dara, Rinchenpong Gumpa, Sai Mandir, Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, Singshore Skywalk Bridge, Solophok Char Dham, Samdruptse and Tathagata Tsal Buddha Park, he added.
In conclusion, he motivated and encouraged all stakeholders to actively participate in making the Digital Nomad Village at Gumpa Dara a reality, in line with the vision of Chief Minister of Sikkim Mr Prem Singh Tamang. He emphasised that with coordinated efforts, community involvement and proper planning, the initiative could serve as a model for sustainable, inclusive and digitally connected development in Soreng.
Following this, General Manager (DIC) Mrs Anula Gurung, further addressed the house and provided a comprehensive briefing on the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP), a scheme funded by the Central Government. She gave detailed insights into the objectives and benefits of the scheme and guided the participants through the complete process of documentation and application. Also, she assured all attendees of full support and assistance from the District Industries Centre.
The house also conducted an open discussion where various issues were raised and addressed, and the interactive session was effectively led by the concerned officials.
The meeting also saw the presence and participation of SDM (HQ) Mr Prem K Subba, SDM (Soreng) Ms Sakchum Lepcha, Assistant Director (District Tourism Office) Mr Subash Rai, Assistant Director (District Tourism Office) Ms Sandhya Sharma, Joint Manager (Bank of Baroda) Mr Sandeep Bara, Tourist Officer Mr Asish Rai and stakeholders.
It is to be noted that, this project has been envisioned to encompass and to work in convergence with the existing schemes of the Government of India Programmes and State Government.
- IPR Report
