2005 World Year of Physics

 

   2005 has been declared the international year of  physics, some hailing it   "'Einstein in the 21^st Century.".. 100 years ago, a 26‑year‑old high school dropout published three papers that changed the face of physics light quanta , Brownian motion, and the special theory of relativity and later, that year came to be known as Einstein's annus mirabilis (miracle year). To the man who said "Never stop questioning," who believed that "imagination is more important than knowledge," and who so optimistically said that you can live life two ways, "one as though nothing is a miracle, the other as though everything is a miracle." To so much of our current life, we owe a tribute to the great and late Albert Einstein.

The International Union of Pure and Applied Physics has declared the year 2005 as the "World Year of Physics". The General Assembly of the United Nations also declared 2005 as the "International Year of Physics". With these declarations people all over the world are joining in the celebration of the year of physics considering its importance in our everyday lives. The hourglass logo is going to become increasingly visible in the coming months.

While celebrating year of physics, there are many ways to get involved in your community. Rather than holding one large event, multiple associations are working together to co‑ordinate a year‑long series of events, exhibits and other physics related activities worldwide Even if you're not into doing the science fair, science can play a big part in your community. We can credit science on a million accounts throughout our everyday lives. By simply taking the time to appreciate one thing in your life that science has played a major role in, and learning all about it, you can quietly pay tribute to all those scientists that have dedicated their lives to making yours an easier one.

“I want to know how God created this world.  I am not interested in this or that  phenomenon, in the spectrum of this or that element. I want to know His thoughts, the rest are details."‑Einstein

                Environmental Information System is a plan programme of the Ministry. ENVIS is a decentralised system using the distributed network of data bases to ensure integration of national efforts in environmental information collection, storage, retrieval and dissemination to all concerned including policy planners, decision makers, research workers and the public.

OBJECTIVES

1. Long‑term objectives

Ø      To build up a repository and dissemination Centre in Environment Science and Engineering;

Ø      To gear up the modern technologies of information acquisition, processing, storage, retrieval and dissemination of environmental information;

Ø      To support and promote research, development and innovation in environmental information technology.

2. Short‑term objective

Ø       To provide national environmental information service relevant to present needs and capable of development to meet the future needs of the users, originators, processors and disseminators of information;

Ø      To build up storage, retrieval and dissemination capabilities, with the ultimate objectives of disseminating information speedily to the users;

Ø      To promote national and international cooperation and liaison for exchange environment related information;

Ø      To promote, support and assist education and     personal training programmes designed   enhance environmental inform processing and utilization capabilities;

Ø      To promote exchange of world. I am not interested in this or that amongst developing countries.

 

Indian Biodiversity and Tourism

           Biodiversity is the new international buzzword.  Perhaps it has not attracted as much attention as global warming and ozone depletion  but it has certainly been catapulted into the centre stage of worldwide environmental politics in the last handful of years.  Same people are under the impression that it is just another fancy term for wildlife but it not.  Biodiversity entails all forms of biological entities inhabiting the earth-wild plants and animals,  microorganisms, domesticated animals  and cultivated plants and even genetic material like seeds and germplasm.  Biodiversity comprises every form of life form the tiniest microbes to the mightiest beasts and gigantic trees.  Biodiversity exists at three different levels, they are.

      v     Species diversity,  which embraces the variety of living organisms on earth.

v     Gender diversity, which is concerned with the variation in genes within a particular species and

v     Ecosystem diversity, which is related to variety of habitats.

From the eco‑tourism point of view ecosystem diversity has been the major concern and conservation of these a major challenge.

India is one of the 12‑mega diversity countries in the world estimated to have over 47000 plant species and 81000 animal species. Indian ecosystem can be divided into wetland eco‑system, estuarine ecosystem, marine and coastal eco‑system, forest eco‑systern and desert ecosystem The protection of various fife forms in these ecosystems has initiated local and governmental concern. Steps have been already initiated in this regard by opening biological reserves, national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Today there are 12 biological reserves, 89 national parks and 497 wildlife sanctuaries in the country as protected areas. These areas in the recent years are in great demand for the tourists for their conservative, informative and educative values. Realizing the importance of these resources to tourism the target today has been to facilitate the conservation of representative landscape.

The various activities include:

v     Habitat improvement

v     Provision of alternate source of energy for the locals so that the forest resources are preserved.

v     Infrastructure building, roads etc

v     Small welfare measures through employment in tourism related activities so that people's participation in tourism can minimize the direct impact on these resources.

Realizing the role of local communities hese programs are at par with providing alternate source of sustenance to the communities living at the fringes of national parks and sanctuaries in order to improve the ecological productivity of these buffer zones aimed at providing sustenance to the forest side communities and ameliorating their hardships to minimize conflicts between these communities and the protection staff.

Preservation of biodiversity-an approach:

The Himalayas constitute a unique geographical and geological entity comprising a diverse social, cultural agro‑economic and environmental setup. Both the local N.G.0s and the government are pursuing biodiversity conservation programs across the Himalayas However in most of the protected areas comprehensive studies have not been carried out so far. Therefore focused studies on the structure and composition of vegetation, delineation of forest communities, human dependence on the biological resources including the extraction, species preference, changes in the structural and compositional patterns of vegetation and identification of rare and endangered species and habitats are required. Recent conversion of the Khanchendzonga biosphere reserve in Sikkim through the up‑gradation of the erstwhile Khanchendzonga National park has opened up a completely new horizon calling in attention and concern from more multi‑pronged approach. So far the biosphere area is virtually undisturbed, rich in natural diversity and represents one of the bio­diversity hot‑spots from the eastern Himalayan region.

To emphasize the importance of conserving biodiversity students and teachers from Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu living around national parks and sanctuaries are taken to their local sanctuaries and national parks to study their importance. In the Nilgiri biosphere reserve which is the most important ecological site in South India various conservational activities are going on. The gene pool of medicinal plants is established at Thambatty which is used as a demonstration plot to educate local farmer and tribals in herbal farming. Smokeless chulhas and vegetable and fruit seeds and sapling are distributed to the tribals in villages accompanied by the training of tribal youth in horticulture and other income generation activities through tourism based on their traditional craft and skills. A festival in tribal arts is also organized.

National River Conservation Plan:

This was launched in 1995 for the conservation of 23 major rivers in 10 states. The overall objective of NRCP is to abate pollution in national rivers by intercepting and treating the sewage outfalls joining the rivers. These integrated projects will not only provide for river cleaning but also provide better health and hygiene.

Rivers of India has a holy significance and are the destination for pilgrimages to many tourists both domestic and international. River Ganga for example has been revered as holy with thousand of pilgrims traveling every year for the ritualistic mass bathing. A sad story however, today it has become a channel receiving and transporting urban waste away from the towns. To prevent this, Ganga action plan has been formulated to reduce pollution and to clean the river and restore its holistic significance, a clean destination for pilgrim tourist in its purest form.

National Lake Conservation Plan:

           Lakes form an important tourism asset of our country and are mainly associated with boating, therefore a clean lake with a healthy environment is essential for a memorable experience for tourists to take home. National Lake Conservation Plan was setup in 2001 for revival of major lakes in the country. It accounts for conservation of 28 lakes in 6 states. However due to paucity of funds only 3 projects are nearing    and Kodaikanal (Tamil Nadu)  and Nainital (Uttaranchal). Some other lakes are the Dal Lake (J & K) , Powai (Mumbai), Ranbu sarovar (Kalkota) and Mansagar Jaipur). While the union ministry for environment and forests are yet to approve the proposal for conservation of the Dal Lake, it has given the go ‑ahead to the others. It involves environmental upgradation of lakes through bioremediation and activities include‑Removal of algae from lake, diversion, collection, treatment and disposal of sewage & desilting of lake and deweeding.

National afforestation and eco‑development board:

Formed on August 1992 it is mainly charged with the responsibility of promoting afforestation, tree planting, ecological restoration and eco‑development activities in the country with a special focus on degraded forest areas and lands adjoining forest areas, national parks, sanctuaries and other protected areas Eke the western Himalayas, Aravallis, Western ghats etc.

Conservation and development of Non Timber Forest Produce including medicinal plants (NTFP):

With a special focus on the habitants living around protected areas a centrally sponsored scheme of financial assistance is provided to the state governments for increasing of non‑timber forest produce including medicinal plants. Herbal gardens are quite popular today with domestic tourists especially excursionists for their educative and informative values.

India Eco development project:

This is being implemented in 7 protected areas in 7 different states. The main aim of the project is to conserve biodiversity through eco-­development, effective and extensive support for eco- development and preparation of future biodiversity projects.

Wildlife Institute of India:

The tourist has a strong desire to see and experience the wilderness where nature remains essentially unspoiled. Keeping this in view the main mandate of WII is to impart training to government and non-government personnel, to carry out research and advise on matters of conservation and management of wild life resources in order to safeguard the wildlife, which is deteriorating and vanishing so rapidly.
 

Central Zoo Authority:

Established in 1992 under the provisions of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 to establish a code of conduct towards healthcare, better housing facilities, training courses for managers in order to upgrade the standard of Indian Zoos which demands a major share of domestic tourists.

Development of National parks and sanctuaries:

From 2001‑2002 onward protected areas in mountains, deserts and coastal regions supporting large population of endangered species like snow leopard, red panda, rhino, sangai deer, phary's leaf monkey, musk deer, hangul, great Indian bustard, chinkara and black buck are projected as tourists destination and developmental works carried out to incur revenue from tourism activities.

National Wildlife action plan (NWAP):

The first NWAP of 1983 has been revised and the new Wildlife Action Plan (2001‑2016) has been adopted. The plan outlines the strategies, action points and the priority projects for the conservation of wild fauna and flora.

Wetland conservation programme:

Wetlands are the lands transitional between terrestrial and aquatic system where the water is usually or near the water surface and the land is covered by shallow water. They are life support systems for people living around and also winter resort for variety of birds for shelter and breeding and provide a suitable habitat for fish and other flora and fauna. Taking into consideration the deterioration of water bodies, a program on conservation of wetlands was initiated in 1987 with the basic objective of assessment of wetland resources, identification of wetlands of national importance, formulation and implementation of management action plans for about 20 wetlands in 13 states.

Coastal Eco‑system:

Coral reefs form an important asset for coastal tourism. In the Indian subcontinent the reefs are distributed along the east and west coast at restricted places. Fringing reefs are found in the gulf of Mannar and Palk bay as well as in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Platform reefs are seen along the Gulf of Kutch and Atoll reefs are found in Lakshadweep Archipilago. Taking into consideration the importance of these corals for tourism the coral reef areas of Andaman and Nicobar Island, Gulf of Mannar, Gulf of Kutch and Lakshadweep Islands has been identified for intensive conservation and management..

Management Action Plans on Coral Reefs submitted by the respective State Governments/ Union territories has been considered by the ministry and financial assistance provided so as to cover activities related to monitoring of health of coral reefs, training and capacity building, establishment of database network, promote research on the identified thrust areas so as to integrate the same with the management of this fragile ecosystem.

As long as an inherent sense of curiosity and adventure dwells in the heart of a man, the desire to travel and see new things and to live in different environment shall live on. Such being the case, for a profitable harvest from the already available resources it is important that we use these rich resources to draw the tourists. Of all the modern industries, tourism has the greatest need to protect the environment of the places of natural and cultural importance be it a monument a beach resort or a wildlife sanctuary. Think of health hazards for tourist vacationing, infected with cholera, typhoid, viral hepatitis, dysentery and recurring diseases often spread by contaminated food. The need is to frame such policies to preserve the environment in which various animals live by protecting them against the forces which are responsible for there degeneration.

Consciousness has already crept in with all the above said initiatives in favour of promoting tourism which is no doubt today the largest smokeless industry. A tourist today has a myriad of choices as compared to the tourist of the past in selecting his destination. Thus for a successful tourism a co‑operative effdrt of the developers/ operators/ suppliers, the visitors and the host community is very essential to package these already available resources in a more presentable form, thus can India be a paradise for the nature enthusiasts.

References: Ministry of Environment and
Forest: Annual Report 1999‑ 2000 (Pages ‑ 102,107 &133);
AnnualReport2001‑ 2002 (Pages ‑ 43,64,68,72,73 & 142);
 

 Yarcha-gonbook:Red alert in the Himalaya

 

It is formed by the parasitism of the fungus Cordyceps sinensis on the larva of Hepialus virescens. The larva hibernates underground in winter and the spore of the fungus enters the body of the larva and feed on it and causes its death. At the end of spring and the beginning summer of the next year, the spore of the fungus will grow out of the ground Eke a little grass...'‑The Aline Plants of China, Zhang Zingwei (ED). Gordon & Breach, New York (1982)

Reporting:

The plant‑cum‑animal life is found between 13000‑16000 ft in the western Nepal Himalayas. From Sikkim it is reported at and above an elevation of 14,000 ft JU & Lachungpa 1996). As a sex tonic the increasing popularity of Yarcha‑gonbook will herald yet another perilous threat to this biota. The extract is used in Nepal, usually at the different meeting centers and star –hotels in Kathmandu and the vicinity. The youths also approach certain massage parlours.

Last year the material was on sale at rates varying between ten to fifteen thousand Nepalese rupee per kilogram. Sources say that a substantial amount of the tonic finds its way to Indian soil. A well‑heeled Mafia has been allegedly identified as running the traffic.

The material has a taste somewhat resembling that of a cooked fish. As the parts normally eaten are fungi it has rubbery constitution that is found in the wild varieties of mushroom. It is powdered and consumed with hot or cold water or milk before indulging in the sexual overtures.

Collected materials are dried in the shade and come to the market without any further processing. It is usually collected between mid‑June to mid‑October. This Plant‑animal association is a unique example of biota which is rare but the exploitation which has now started has put Yarcha‑gonbook in real trouble.The double‑edged threat ‑ the plant as well to the animal combined life‑is disturbing. As because of its commensal relationship in nature and both Cordyceps and Hepialus being interdependent the loss of one would produce a telling effect on the other too.

The shepherds, to arouse the animal's libido introduce the yaks grazing at highland pastures to the effect of this material. Breeding and subsequent calfing is thus ensured during the pasturage when plentiful of forage is available.

With the gradual onset of winters the calves are strong and ready to travel and the entire herd comes to lower heights in summer. As it forces artificial breeding in the yaks it is a powerful tool for the yak grazers but with commercial collection rearing its ugly head one more time, it is soon bound to be scarce and may become extinct too.A Kathmandu daily    recently pick up one of the sorriest picture of the Yarcha from Khandeswari, Ghusa etc. area of the western Nepal Himalaya. The illiterate and economically deprived locals are severely exploited by the small and higher rate under loan and Yarcha is substituted for balancing thebook. It is a pity that Picrorhiza kurrooa (kutki) is prohibited by the Department but Yarcha is not. Theyear that went away saw extraction of assorted medicinal herbs from the region to the tune of 1,01,000 quintals which is entered in the statistics at district forest office.

This year the traders have resorted to a yet brilliant idea where purchase of all the regular herbs are withheld until the Yarcha supply dries off. A whole brigade of traders, informers, contractors, agents, swindlers of every hue and colour have swarmed the area making hay while the local villagers remain ever exploited and the Yarcha definitely heading for a bleak future.

            The funny thing about Yarcha is that nowhere it is mentioned that it acts Eke the Viagra and claims are only made but never so much as clinically tested. Not even in the Chinese Pharmacopeia it is found as such. Rather references that are found describes the Yarcha ‑gonbook (Doncong Xiacao, in Chinese) as useful in fortifying the lungs and kidneys and to treat impotency and asthma. In the Compendium of Materia Medica and also New Compendium of the Materia Medica the fungus is stated as being mainly used to fortify the lungs and kidneys and to treat a lack of Yin in the lungs (as manifested in hacking coughs, and expectoration of blood), and can also be used to treat impotence and premature ejaculation. The plain fact is that in traditional Chinese medicine, kidney‑fortifying C. sinensis is thought to have no direct effect on the sexual organs. But claims or no claims this fungi is surely going to walk the plank.

Two things in particular are important and which are not so far known about the fungus are‑

1          Nobody knows the actual availability, extent of distribution and amount in the wild.

2.         Nobody knows the actual volume of collection.

Understanding these facts would make things not so much gloomy as it is painted above but even considering the above situation in a simplest way do not in anyway bring smiles either.

We can do two things ‑ which is to go away and believe everything will work out in the end, or sketch up a plan where Yarcha could be saved in the Himalaya.

After all everybody has a right to live in this planet!

Source:‑ Lalit Kumar Rai,
G.. B. Pantb, Institute of Himalayan & Envn. Dev.
 

Promoting Sustainable Tourism: Villagers in Uttarey show the way

The Shingalila trek, on the razor sharp Shingalila Range traverses through some bewildering oak forests, rhododendron forests and alpine meadows of the Khangchendzonga National Park in West Sikkim. It is a 18 Days Trek with 12 Camping Sites and average altitude being 12000 ft. It is fast catching up with foreign and Indian tourists as a trekking destination.

Uttarey is an important tourist destination and the starting point of the world famous Shingalila Trekking Route" in the Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve. Right next to this town is a beautiful lake lined with Acorus calamus (Bojo) which is an important medicinal plant. The stream discharging from this lake unusually flows north (or Uttar) towards the snow capped Khangchendzonga range and that's how the town derives its name, its identity.

Wetlands in the mountain ecosystems are not only a source of fresh drinking water but are also a habitat of globally threatened biodiversity. They are also interlinked with the cultural ‑ethos of the region and in many cases determine their identity. More often an unwise development decisions have resulted in these wetlands drying up and their catchments eroded. The villagers are trying to resist unsustainable development Eke tinkering with their wetland, which could end disastrously and also that they would lose their medicinal plants. Instead of having an artificial lake, they are trying to preserve and promote their lake fringed with Acorus Calamus (Bojo), Swertia chirayta (chirayto), Bergenia spp (Pakbanbbed) and others as the "Herbal Lake". This would result in the tourists getting an opportunity to enjoy a unique natural treasure and also at the same time their lake would be conserved.

In order to ensure that the community benefits from this tourism and the multiplier ratio is high the villagers have organized themselves into the Uttarey Ecotourism Development Association (UETDA) and Sopakha Samaj Kalyan Sangh (SSKS). 150 Porters, 10 Naturalist Guides, 16 Pack Animal Operators are registered with this association. They have also framed operational guidelines to ensure that everyone gets an equal opportunity and the tourists get good service. A rotation system is in place to ensure that the porters get their opportunity in time and there is no competition amongst them leading to undercutting of the wage rate. The association also provides basic facilities like good footwear for its members. This has resulted in a total of Rs 9 Lakhs income for villagers in 2003 from 400 tourists. The benefit to the village per tourist is Rs 2250/‑ annually.

There are also plans to have group insurance for the trekking support staff and provide them with solar lanterns and warm clothing. The Mountain Institute, NGO is also assisting in providing training for the trekking service providers and homestay operators.

It would be quite informative to compare this Uttarey Ecotourism Model with that at Yuksam. Out here there are no agencies like UETDA or SSKS to organize the service providers Eke porters cooks etc. Consequently a large chunk of the income from tourism enterprise flows outside the state. The local villagers are competed out by other immigrants who come along with their pack animals to provide service at a much lower cost.

Hence in the Yuksam model of the total of about Rs 60 lakhs that the 5000 tourists spend annually on hiring trekking service providers only about Rs 25 lakhs percolates to the local community. The benefit to the village per tourist in Yuksam is only Rs 500/‑ annually. Hence to ensure that the benefits of tourism are equitably shared, the need of the hour is to organize the porters, cooks, guides, pack animal operators in the village so that they are able to unite and compete with the market forces on an equal footing.

This community initiative will ensure that the Tourism multiplier ratio is high like in Uttarey and the community which is conserving their natural resources, benefits directly from the tourism enterprise.

Source.‑ Sandeep Tambe
Project Manager, TMI

 

ECO‑NEWS SNIPPETS

Sites in Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim,added to UNESCO ecotourism

Following a regional programme workshop organized by UNESCO partner the Royal Society for the Protection of Nature (RSPN) in Thimphu, Bhutan, ending on 2 April 2004, two new project sites have been added to the network established under the UNESCO project for the Development of Cultural and Ecotourism  in the Mountainous Regions  of Central and South Asia.

The new sites, in the North Indian states of Himalchal Pradesh and Sikkim, bring the total number of sites at which the project is working up to ten in eight countries in Central and South Asia: Bhutan, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Nepal, Pakistan and Tajikistan. In addition to the eight established sites, project activities implemented by UNESCO partners the Snow Leopard Conservancy and the Ecotourism and Conservation Society of Sikkim, will now be extended to Spithi in Himachal Pradesh and to Gangtok, Sikkim. Field activities under this regional cultural and ecotourism programme began in seven regional countries in 2002 as part of the UNESCO strategy for the eradication of poverty, especially        extreme poverty, and they are designed to develop ways in which the growth of tourism in the region can bring tangible economic benefits to      members of some of the region's most remote and poorest mountain communities.

           The programme is financed both from UNESCO regular funds and from a generous grant from the UNESCO / Norwegian Funds­ in‑Trust.

        In 2003, the Government of Andorra made a smaller voluntary contribution to the programme. Activities sponsored by the project and implemented by local partners include training for young people as cultural, mountain or environmental guides, training in community homestay operation, the appropriate design and production of traditional handicrafts, and advice on the organization and management of cultural and sports festivals as ways of reinforcing the cultural heritage and bringing opportunities for income‑generation through tourism.

             In addition to agreeing the extension of project activities to new project sites in 2004, the recent Bhutan project workshop brought together participants from the eight regional countries to review activities and plan future initiatives, as well as to meet with representatives of the Bhutanese tourism industry, government representatives, international organizations working in tourism development and NGOs.

             The UNESCO ecotourism project in Bhutan, implemented by RSPN, is working to  develop ecotourism activities in the Phobjikha Valley, 2,900 metres above sea level, the largest of Bhutan's wetlands and home to the ways in which the growth of tourism in the threatened black‑necked crane.

Source: Web.

LAMPOKHARI

A boom sector of tourism

Blessed by Guru Padmasambhava, Sikkim is a land of unsurpassed natural beauty coupled with diverse cultures and socio‑ecological mythology. This Himalayan State is also famous for its rare species of flora and fauna as well as its caves, monasteries, temples, sacred groves, rivers and lakes. Undoubtedly, it is a paradise on earth, especially for the nature lovers and trekkers.

Thankfully, barring a few places in North Sikkim, most of these beautiful places are easily accessible. Local water bodies are also of importance keeping in mind their medicinal value of the mythologies attached to these lakes and rivers, which is the main reason for the tourist inflow in these areas. This in turn, allows the local communities to engage in sustainable development of these spots and take economic benefit by becoming a part of the tourism industry.

A case in point is the Lampokhari lake located at the junction of Dalapchand and Aritar village at Pakyong sub‑division, about 59 kms from the State capital, Gangtok. Recently, a local governmental organization named Aritar ­Dalapchand Lampokhari Tourism Development Society, East Sikkim [registration no. 169 [S] LD/02/35; dated 18th July, 2002], started conducting boat rides at the lake. The boating facility was launched at the site in the presence of the area MLA, K.B. Chamling.

It is interesting to note here that boating on lakes is not allowed in Sikkim due to the religious significance attached to it. In‑ this regard, Lampokhari is the first lake where a facility of this kind has been launched for the visitors, which also explains the large number of visitors flocking to the area. Plans are also on to develop a picnic spot in the area.

       The lake area, which is managed by the NGO itself, is about four hectares and is adorned by dense forest, except on the west side which has  some habitation. Also interesting in the name of the lake itself, derived from tow villages, which shows the unity among the local communities of Aritar and Dalapchand to promote eco-tourism in this area.

           An awesome statue of Guru Padmasambhava, the Lotus Born, has also been installed at the North side of the lake by the concerned department in keeping with the local legend, according to which  Guru Rinponche lives  in the water body.  His presence in the lake gives the devotees and visitors immunity from illness,  old age and death,  it is believed. It is further believed. It is further believed that the statue of the Patron Saint brings blessings to all sentient beings, besides bringing peace and harmony to the whole world.   

The picturesque lake is bordered by a temple in the north Hatichire village in the east Dalapchand village in the West and Aritar village in the South. Only half an hour's drive from Rhenock Bazaar, the lake appears to the visitors like a little paradise. A little‑known tourist center stands near it. Locals inform that a steady stream of visitors descend on the lake everyday, not only from Sikkim but also from surrounding areas of Bhutan and even Nepal.

However, proper infrastructure is not in place. The place lacks accommodation and other basic facilities for the visitors. This means the visitors leave the area soon after visiting the lake and taking the mandatory boat‑ride.

"Infrastructure needs to be developed so that the tourists are encouraged to stay here longer, which will boost the local economy either directly of indirectly, "says a member of the NGO.

The promotion of nature conservation and environmental protection as the basis of sustainable development at the grassroots level could be undertaken in active participation with the local community without jeopardizing the natural resources. In this context, Aritar Dalapchand Larnpokhari Tourism Development Society and the local people of these adjoining villages have set an example that needs to be emulated by the rest of the State.

Source: NOW
Friday 11, March 2005

Peak calls prompt agreement

            Sikkim and Nepal are likely to sign an agreement aimed at promoting the Nepal-Sikkim circuit, which has the maximum number of mountain ranges in the entire east.

             The development took place at a felicitation ceremony and dinner hosted by Travel Agents Association Presiden Ang Tsheing Sherpa recently.  A memorandum of understanding is also expected to be singed.

             "Mountaineering is one of the highest revenue rakers for Nepal and the same could be done for Sikkim," Sherpa said.

TAAS president Palzor Lachungpa said the visit of Sherpa helped expand Sikkim's plans for adventure tourism and mountaineering.

"We will sign a joint initiative for the growth of this sector with Nepal very soon," he said.

Sikkim may also soon be able to avail services of MI‑17 choppers to visit far‑flung areas in the state. Sikkim tourism minister R.B. Subba said the proposal would be placed before Chief Minister Pawan Chamling Soon.

Source: The Telegraph
January 10, 2005

ECOSS suggests ECO‑TOURISM brand name for Sikkim

Marketing Sikkim as the perfect eco‑tourism. destination and creating a market linkage were the main subjects discussed at a seminar on "Ecotourism Standards" held at Chumbi Residency here today. The seminar was sponsored by the American Center, Kolkata, and co‑sponsored by Ecotourism. and Conservation Society of Sikkim [ECOSS].

Recognizing that tourism was the backbone of the Sikkimese economy, many negative aspects related to mass tourism and the requirement of 'high value' ecotourism were also discussed during the seminar.

P.D. Rai of ECOSS, in his presentation "Eco­tourism‑ a shared vision," highlighted that eco­tourism was "responsible" travel to "natural areas" of a particular destination which conserved the environment and sustained the well being of the local people. He revealed that Sikkim had its first thoughts on eco‑tourism in 1985; since then, a big push in the tourism industry in the region came through the Darjeeling model in 1990. In 1995, another big boost came through SBEP, and, in 2000, ECOSS was established. In 2002, the South Asia Regional Conference on Ecotourism was held in Sikkim, which was followed by a market linkage workshop in 2005.

He mentioned that by 2010 there would be a big push for the future with stress being laid on policy initiatives and by 2015 the whole world would be laying emphasis on eco‑friendly tourism. Thus, he underlined the need for market linkage in the present situation. He also spoke on ecotourism products like non‑obstructive trekking in national parks and home‑stay programmes in rural areas. He also cleared doubts on how to market ecotourism and how this marketing could be improved by giving Sikkim a brand name.

     "As far as competition with Bhutan Tourism is concerned, they have the monopoly as they are fully regulated. Nepal is good competition, as they are not fully regulated. Sikkim tourism is now waking up from going the DGHC way and is at the  moment working towards regulation by starting to create a brand name for Sikkim. All stakeholders have a role to play in the future of Sikkim tourism and thus all have to have a shared vision ' " he said.
 
       Michael Fox, a resource person from the American Centre, spoke on the world trends, competitiveness and ecotourism in the travel and tourism industry. He also spoke on worldwide travel, tourism and hospitality industry today and the channels of distribution in the global tourism industry.

"Sikkim has what tourists are looking for in a destination," he observed. He spoke on how ecotourism contributed to the economy and preserved the environment, the major eco‑tourism issues today and the international ecotourism success. He further gave definitions of ecotourism by citing famous names such as Ceballs‑Lascurain in 1988, Karen Ziffer in 1989 and of the Ecotourism society.

Present for the seminar were departmental officials, members of TAAS and SATO, representatives of CBOs and NGOs, MLAs from Hee‑Bermoik, West Sikkim and Dzongu, North Sikkim. Also to address the participants were Loday Chungyalpa, chairperson, ECOSS, and Susan M. Shultz, public affairs officer, US Consulate General and Director, American Center, Kolkata.

Source: Sikkim Herald,
February 11, 2005

Other states should follow the Sikkim Model: Kalam

President impressed with Sikkim's commitment to eco‑tourism; Lavishes praise in address to international tourism promoters.

President, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam introduced the "experience in Sikkim" as the model that other states should follow in their pursuit for commercial utilization of its resources with a minimal impact on its environment.

Delivering the inaugural address at the Fifth Global Travel and Tourism Summit at Ashoka Hotel in New Delhi on Friday, the President devoted a whole section of his speech on Sikkim and lavished praise on the State Government, which he said, "is determined to make Sikkim a premier eco‑tourism destination". Observing that natural potential and heritage should not be over‑used in the pursuit of increased tourist arrivals, Dr. Kalam said: "Here, I would like to mention about the experience in Sikkim, which can be followed by other states."

Addressing a gathering of international tourism delegates, tour operators, infrastructure developers and Ministry of Tourism officials gathered for the Summit organised by the World Travel and Tourism Council, the President pointed out that the Sikkim Government in its bid to get recognized as an eco‑tourism destination, had taken "numerous initiatives" to "preserve the natural beauty and bio‑diversity of the State." "The State has been declared plastic free five years ago by way of legislation. A portion of Gangtok town has been declared clean zone.

            The urban waste disposal system in Gangtok over the last two years is going on very smoothly with full cooperation from the residents using scientific disposal methods," he revealed. Such praise for Sikkim from the President himself at a Summit held to deliberate on "Dynamics of Travel and Tourism," if promoted in the right earnest, should work as a wonderful promotional material for Sikkim. The praise is specially unique because Sikkim is the only State highlighted by the President in his address. The only other tourism models he had good words for were foreign‑Dubai and Maldives.

There was more in the presidential address that should bring cheer for Sikkim. While speaking on infrastructure development, Dr. Kalam stressed that to "realize maximum value" for and from tourists visiting the country, we have to provide "reliable and fast travel conditions." For this I he highlighted the need for "frequent air connectivity for majority of tourist centers apart from what we have been connecting small and big cities." Sikkim, only recently included in the Buddhist circuit of the country, will also find reason to cheer in the President's concluding remarks where he broached the idea of "multinational spiritual tourism" connecting important Buddhist centers in India, Nepal and Thailand operated by a single airline can be considered.

Source: NOW,
April 11,2005

SANJIVANI PARK COMING UP AT HANUMAN TOK !

Sikkim will soon have its largest herbal park, Sanjivini Park, in the Hanuman Tok complex, which will spread over an estimated area of 50 hectares. In this ideally situated park, several varieties of rare Himalayan medicinal plants will be cultivated, inform officials of the Forest Department. The medicinal plants, which will be cultivated here, will be virtually used for domestic purpose. However, the department is also keen to export a considerable portion of the park's produce to the international market, where demand for herbal medicines are an all time high. According to the department officials, the work will be undertaken from 2005 to 2006 and the State Medicinal Plant Board will look after the over all running of the herbal Park. At present, they are working on the formulation of the project. T.R Poudyal, CCF, Forest Department, informed that the land was procured from the Army which was using it for firing purpose. After repeated requests by the department, the army agreed to vacate the land, he stated. The State Government and the Government of India are collaborating to fund for the construction of the park. According to the Government policy, in every Panchayat unit one herbal garden and a Smriti Van should be created, he added.

"For the cultivation of medicinal plants, seeds will be collected and even locals will be encouraged to donate seeds. The main purpose being the setting up of this park is to propagate the idea of economic viability of medicinal plant cultivation and to encourage the farmers here to take up another course of farming and raise heir income," Mr. Poudyal said.

Some of the medicinal herb to be cultivated here are Kutki, Jatawari, Panchamli, Cherauto, etc. These medicinal plants will be cultivated altitude‑wise.

The State Medicinal Plant Board will coordinate the plantations and provide technical knowledge. The board will also plant 50 lakh Jaributi for the promotion of medicinal plants cultivation in Sikkim.

The park will be used for research purposes, study of herbs by Botanists, and will also be open to the tourists. The State Government's idea behind the setting up of this park is to encourage farmers and interested non­governmental orgnisations to take up cultivation of medicinal plants, besides creating another income generating avenue for the locals.

Source.‑NOW,
April 1,2005
 

ECOTOURISM EVENTS AROUND THE WORLD ‑ 2005 [January-July]
 

January 13                                                                 Reiseliv 2005 ‑ Norway International Tourism &Travel Fair‑ NORWAY

January 14                                                                 Adventures in Travel Expo2005‑USA

January 25                                                                 Supporting Indian Ocean Ecotourism  in the Aftermath of the Tsunami­

                                                                                    ECOCLUB.

January 26                                                                  FITUR 2005‑SPAIN

January 28                                                                Adventures in Travel Expo

February 01                                                               CAUTHE 2005 ‑ Sharing Tourism  Knowledge‑AUSTRALIA

February 03                                                               Tourism Forum International at  Reisepavillon‑GERMANY               

February 05                                                               Saturday‑Built Environments for Sus tainable Tourism ‑OMAN

February 06                                                               3rd IIPT African Conference on Peace  through Tourism‑ZAMBIA

February 07                                                               Global Tourism in the 21st Century: Managing environmental, social and

                                                                                    business risks‑UK

February 12                                                               Rural Tourism Fair/Feria de Turismo  Rural‑MEXICO

February 23                                                               12th ANNUAL ALASKA  ECOTOURISM CONFERENCE ALASKA  

February 25                                                               Reisemarkt Saarbrilcken / Freizeit  2005‑GERMANY

March 03                                                                    Festivals and Partnerships: Policy,   Management and Marketing‑THE

                                                                                    NETHERLANDS

March 04                                                                    New York Times Travel Show ‑USA

March 09                                                                    Workshop: Nature, Access for people  with reduced mobility

                                                                                    ‑NETHERLANDS

March 11                                                                    International Tourism Exchange­ GERMANY

March 12                                                                    Seminar on congestion management: visitors satisfaction and safeguarding

                                                                                    tourism sites‑GERMANY

March 16                                                                    Indian Tourism Conference in Denver‑USA

March 17                                                                    TUR2005‑SWEDEN Journeys of Expression IV. Tourism, Carnival and

                                                                                    Folklore‑CROATIA

March 21                                                                    Best Practices and Sustainable Tourism in the Western Mediterranean‑ITALY

March 23                                                                    MITT2005 ‑ Moscow International Travel & Tourism Exhibition  RUSSIA

April 01                                                                       Adventure Travel & Vacation Pavilion ‑  CANADA

April 05                                                                       HERITAGE, ENVIRONMENT &  TOUR ISM‑USA

April 07                                                                       AITF 2005‑4th Azerbaijan International Tourism Fair AZERBAIJAN

April 08                                                                       WTTC 2005 (World Travel &Tourism Council) ‑ The 5th GIobal

                                                                                     Travel & Tourism Summit‑INDIA

April 10                                                                        Pre‑Indaba Theme Development Process‑SOUTH AFRICA

April 12                                                                        Borneo Ecotourism Conference  MALAYSIA

April 14                                                                        Workshop on 'Tourism in the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation

                                                                                     Area' ‑SOUTH AFRICA

April 20                                                                        BITTM 2005 ‑ The Beijing International Travel & Tourism Market‑CHINA

April 21                                                                        Cultural Tourism: The Challenge of  European Integration‑LUXEMBURG

April 25                                                                        Rural Tourism Conference PLANETA.com.

April 26                                                                        7th Annual Caribbean Conference on Sustainable Tourism Development

                                                                                       TOBAGO.

April 28                                                                         TIES Second Annual Gala and Trip  Auction ‑USA

May 04                                                                          The First European Cr‑Ringing Conference, Lesvos, GREECE.

May 07                                                                           INDABA TRAVEL SHOW‑SOUTH  AFRICA

May 08                                                                           Eurosite workshop: Integration of Water Framework Directive and Natura

                                                                                        2000‑GERMANY

May 09                                                                            P.R.O.F.I.T. Partnership Meeting­ BARBA‑DOS

May 11                                                                            Roundtable to discuss biodiversity, ecotourism in Russia's Kamchatka

                                                                                         RUSSIA

May 16                                                                            Third Meeting of the World Committee on Tourism Ethics‑TUNISIA.

May 19                                                                            Creating Global Partnerships forSustainable Tourism Development

                                                                                         RUSSIA

May 20                                                                              International Tourism Conference: Per­spectives In Tourism Marketing

                                                                                          TURKEY

June 03                                                                            Adventure & Ecotourism Expo & Conference 2005‑MEXICO

June 07                                                                             Eye for Travel‑UK

June 11                                                                             Joint WTO/ESCAP National Seminar on sustainable Development of

                                                                                           Tourism‑BANGLADESH

June 16                                                                              BEST Sustainable Tourism Think Tank  V ‑JAMAICA

June 20                                                                             Seminar on Tourism in transition economics as a means of sustainable

                                                                                           development‑ SERBIA

June 21                                                                              Ecofilm Festival‑GREECE Thursday,

June 23                                                                              11th International Interdisciplinary Conference on the environment‑USA 2005.