The visit provided the media representatives an opportunity to understand how the Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP) is contributing towards strengthening infrastructure, improving basic amenities and promoting socio-economic development in villages located in the border areas.
The media team were warmly welcomed by the Block Development Officer (BDO), Kabi Tingda, and the Ward Panchayat of Tingmo Ward, who presented traditional khadas to the visiting media representatives. Senior officials from various departments, including the Divisional Engineer, Assistant Director (PRI), Assistant Engineer (Roads) and Assistant Conservator of Forests (Social Forestry), were also present.
During the interaction, Divisional Engineer, Kabi Tingda BAC, made a detailed presentation on the *implementation and status of development works under the Vibrant Villages Programme. He briefed the delegation about the efforts being made to improve connectivity, infrastructure and other essential facilities in the area, while also highlighting the historical and cultural significance of Sikkim.
The officials explained that initiatives under the Vibrant Villages Programme aim not only to improve physical infrastructure but also to strengthen the socio-economic fabric of border villages and encourage people to remain connected with their native villages.
The BDO, Kabi Tingda, also briefed the delegation about various ongoing flagship schemes along with rural development and welfare initiatives being implemented for the benefit of local communities.
The visit also witnessed a warm cultural exchange between Himachal Pradesh and Sikkim. As a gesture of goodwill and camaraderie, the Assistant Director, PIB Shimla, presented a traditional Himachali cap and scarf to the BDO, Kabi Tingda.
Following the interaction, the media delegation visited the historic Kabi Lungchok, an important site associated with the cultural heritage of Sikkim. The delegation learnt about the traditional Blood Brotherhood pact between the Lepcha and Bhutia communities, which holds an important place in the history and social fabric of the State.
The visit to Kabi Tingda gave the media delegation an opportunity to witness development in a Vibrant Village, interact with local administrators and understand the convergence of infrastructure development, welfare initiatives and preservation of cultural heritage in Sikkim.
The visit formed an important part of the delegation’s familiarisation tour, aimed at providing media representatives with first-hand exposure to development initiatives and the changing socio-economic landscape of Sikkim’s border and rural areas.
