Amidst a nationwide lockdown wherein the governments, both at the

Centre and in the respective States have stepped up their efforts to

curb the spread of the deadly COVID-19 virus, Sikkim remains the
only state with no reported cases as of yet. However, since the
enforcement of lockdown regulations that demanded closure of our
state borders, our tourism sector has suffered immensely. Tourism is
the single largest employer in Sikkim, contributing to the income of at
least 7 out of every 10 families in the state. Hence, as an executive
concerned with the development of tourism in the state my foremost
priority remains revival of the same post resolution of the ongoing
crisis. Meanwhile we have already undertaken the necessary steps to
ensure sustenance of the sector amidst this, which includes a formal
request to the State for reduction of taxes, extensions on loans made
out to hotels, travel agencies, tourist vehicle owners etc. The
following course of action will ensure both the safety of tourists and a
steady recovery of the sector post lockdown:
 Installation of thermal screening stations at all entry points into
the state including airports, railway stations etc.
 Hotels and tourist lodges shall operate at fifty percent
occupancy at any given time. Housekeeping will involve daily
sanitisation of quarters, shifts will be implemented during meals
and the staff will ensure contactless room service.
 Social distancing will be maintained as per WHO guidelines at
all places and the responsibility to ensure the same will be of the
concerned authorities.