Gangtok: The Sikkim Assembly has taken a decisive step to reform its tourism sector by passing the Sikkim Registration of Tourist Trade Bill, 2024. The bill, put forward by Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Tshering Thendup Bhutia, aims to create a more structured approach to managing tourism in the region.
The new legislation is designed to address various issues in the tourism sector, from ensuring safety to improving the quality of services offered. Bhutia explained that the bill will require all tourism-related businesses to follow clear standards, making Sikkim a more reliable destination for travellers.
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The bill also seeks to promote responsible tourism by setting out expected behaviors for both tourism providers and visitors, including a commitment to environmental care and community support. Those who don’t follow these new rules will face fines, intended to encourage compliance and maintain high standards.
In addition to tourism regulation, the assembly also approved amendments to the Sikkim Court Fees and Stamps on Documents Bill, 2024, paving the way for e-stamping. Another notable amendment involves online gaming regulation, with the state government seeking to redefine ‘Intranet Gaming Terminals’ and impose penalties on unlicensed operators. This move is part of a broader effort to control and regulate the online gaming industry, ensuring that operators adhere to legal standards.
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The four-day budget session, which began on August 5, 2024, also included a moment of reflection as the assembly paid tribute to former MP Pahalman Subba and former MLAs Sonam Gyatso Bhutia and Ram Chandra Poud. Their contributions to Sikkim’s political landscape were commemorated at the start of the session.
