The inaugural IHCAE Partnership Conclave 2025 was held from October 9–10 in Chemchey, Sikkim, organized by the Indian Himalayan Centre for Adventure and Ecotourism (IHCAE) under the Government of Sikkim. The event brought together stakeholders from India, Nepal, and Bhutan to strengthen collaboration in sustainable adventure and ecotourism.
Anjeeta Rajalim, Zilla Adhakshya Namchi, gave the opening remarks for the conference. She emphasized the value of inter-institutional collaboration and skill-based education in establishing Sikkim as a leader in responsible adventure travel. Prominent speakers with an emphasis on mountaineering, birdwatching tourism, and biodiversity conservation included Dr. Peter Lobo, Chairman of IATO North Bengal & Sikkim; Dr. Kishore Rithe, Director of BNHS; and Col. Vijay Singh, President of the Indian Mountaineering Foundation.
During the event, the Adventure Map of Sikkim was unveiled, highlighting key adventure tourism locations across the region. An MoU was also signed between BNHS and the Mount Zion Group of Schools to strengthen educational collaboration in ecotourism. Delegates participated in a mountain biking expedition from Chemchey to Temi and visited community-based tourism projects to gain practical insights into sustainable practices.
At the end of the conclave, the Tourism Department signed eight new Memorandums of Understanding with partner organizations from India, Nepal, and Bhutan. It reinforced Sikkim's commitment to sustainable adventure tourism, skill development, and regional collaboration.
In the Eastern Himalayas, the IHCAE Partnership Conclave 2025 represents a major advancement in teamwork and the promotion of ecotourism and responsible adventure.
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